After spending nearly four years in prison for fraud, Anna Sorokin, also known as Anna Delvey, is back in the spotlight. This time, it’s not for her impersonation of a wealthy heiress but over a troubling incident involving three rabbits.
Recently, Sorokin shared a photo on her Instagram featuring herself with two leashed rabbits outside a subway station in Tribeca. This post, made while she wore an ankle monitor from her 2022 release, captured a lot of attention. However, shortly after her photoshoot, the three rabbits were found abandoned in Prospect Park, leading to a wave of criticism on social media.
Sorokin expressed shock and dismay when she learned about the abandoned rabbits. “I was horrified,” she said, insisting she had no involvement in their treatment. The rabbits were discovered near a cardboard box that was part of her shoot, creating further association.
One of the rabbits, a Harlequin lop, was found by a Brooklyn resident named Terry Chao. Two more were located nearby shortly after. Following the backlash, the photographer, Jasper Egan Soloff, stated through a lawyer that he had no knowledge of the rabbits’ fate.
In a turn of events, someone involved in the shoot took responsibility. The individual shared a since-deleted post admitting to releasing the rabbits out of panic, thinking they could survive in the wild. This raises a question about the responsibility of those who treat animals as props.
Social media reactions have been fierce. Many have accused Sorokin of animal cruelty, saying that using pets in this way is irresponsible. In the animal care community, there’s a term called “trancing,” which is when animals are laid on their backs. This technique can be harmful, and many were quick to warn against it.
Adding to the complexity, Sorokin has a history that makes her recent actions more notable. Convicted in 2019 for larceny and theft, her return to public life has sparked interest and debate. Additionally, according to recent data, around 26 million pets are adopted every year in the U.S., yet many still face abandonment. This incident sheds light on the importance of responsible pet ownership and awareness of their needs.
Despite her rocky past, Anna Sorokin maintains her innocence regarding the rabbits. “I do not eat meat, nor would I harm animals,” she clarified, hoping to distance herself from the issue. Whether this incident will affect her public image further remains to be seen.
For more insights on animal welfare, you can check resources like the ASPCA which focuses on responsible pet ownership and the importance of animal safety.
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