by Ashland, VA – The raccoon that made headlines for a liquor-fueled rampage in a Virginia store is back in the spotlight — and it turns out he’s no stranger to trouble. Hanover County Animal Protection (HCAP) revealed on Dec. 11 that the critter, who went viral for his intoxicated break-in at the Ashland ABC Store, is a repeat offender.
Third Break-In Confirmed
Animal Protection Officer Samantha Martin, the officer who captured the animal, disclosed on the Hear In Hanover podcast that this isn’t the raccoon’s first escapade.
“This is not the first time he’s been in one of the buildings,” Martin said. “This is the third break-in he’s had.”
According to Martin, the raccoon’s previous targets included:
- A karate studio
- The DMV, where he reportedly ate some of their snacks
Despite his criminal behavior, HCAP chose not to relocate the raccoon, explaining that relocation could be a death sentence for wildlife. “I hope he learned his lesson,” Martin joked. “But I just say, ‘Enjoy your life.’ I think he’s living his best life — and why not? Have a drink or two, especially on Black Friday.”
The Infamous Liquor Store Incident
On Nov. 29, the raccoon broke into the Ashland ABC Store and left chaos in his wake.
- Shelves ransacked with bottles of gin, whiskey, and other spirits knocked to the floor
- Raccoon discovered face down in the bathroom, clearly “very intoxicated” according to HCAP
- Photos show broken glass scattered across the aisles and the raccoon sprawled next to a toilet
The incident immediately caught the public’s attention, turning the raccoon into an internet sensation and earning him a nickname: the “Trash Panda”.
A Cocktail Celebration
In true viral fashion, the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority commemorated the raccoon’s antics with three themed cocktails:
- Trash Panda Old Fashioned
- Midnight Masked Gin Fizz
- Rye Rascal Sour
The raccoon’s unexpected celebrity status has made him the star of both social media and local culture, cementing his reputation as the sly, boozy critter of Ashland.
The Takeaway
While the raccoons’ break-ins are entertaining, Martin emphasized that wildlife can be unpredictable and should not be approached. HCAP encourages residents to secure trash, lock doors, and avoid leaving food or alcohol where wildlife can access it.
As for the raccoon, he seems to be living his best life, undeterred by rules or human judgment, much to the amusement of the public.
Have you seen the drunken raccoon or heard about his antics? Comment below with your favorite part of this viral story or your funniest animal encounter!
