Virginia’s ‘Trashed Panda’ Raccoon Suspected in Multiple Break-Ins Including Liquor Store and Karate Studio
December 13, 2025
A raccoon in Hanover, Virginia, first found drunk and passed out in a liquor store bathroom, is now suspected of a string of break-ins. Animal control officer Samantha Martin says the striped bandit also broke into a karate studio and raided the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for snacks. "Supposedly, this is the third break-in he's had," Officer Martin said. Nicknamed the "trashed panda," the raccoon was caught after Thanksgiving and released back into the wild about a mile away. The officer shared on the Hear in Hanover podcast that this might not be the only raccoon involved, but this one is their prime suspect. Raccoons are famous for rummaging through trash, earning them the nickname “trash panda.” Inspired by the mischievous animal, the county has been selling “trashed panda” shirts and raised $207,000 to expand and renovate their animal shelter. Officer Martin described how the raccoon seemed to enjoy its time even after capture, relaxing in the sun at the kennel before release. The story has gone viral because many find it amusing and relatable. "Everybody's been there," said Martin. "Everybody's had a few extra and passed out by the toilet, and hopes somebody can come get you the next morning." She added with a grin, "I hope he learned his lesson... He'll be back. He's not a dummy."
Read More at Bbc →
Tags:
Raccoon
Virginia
Break-In
Liquor Store
Karate Studio
Dmv
Comments