Anna Delvey
Convicted fraudster Anna Delvey is accused of abandoning rabbits during a photoshoot, raising concerns about animal welfare and responsibility.

In what seems like an increasingly bizarre chapter, the convicted fraudster known as Anna Delvey faces fresh allegations involving animals in Prospect Park, New York City. This latest controversy centres on photos of rabbits used during a recent photoshoot that allegedly led to their abandonment. Accusers allege that Anna Delvey took part in a photoshoot that involved rabbits, who were then abandoned in the park.

On 4 August 2025, two rabbits were rescued near the Grand Army Plaza entrance of Prospect Park. Rescuer Terry Chao, a vegan blogger, documented her efforts on social media, naming one rabbit Parker and another Moon. The animals had allegedly originally appeared in images posted by Delvey on Instagram, showing her handling them with a leash and placing a towel and box nearby.

Rescuers allege that Delvey's team abandoned the rabbits after the shoot. They claim the animals were left in the park, with one of the rabbits reportedly seen wandering loose. Witnesses also observed Delvey 'trancing' one of the animals—a handling method criticised by animal welfare experts for its potential stress and harm—raising questions about her experience with caring for rabbits.

Allegations and Denials

The controversy intensified when evidence surfaced linking Delvey to the abandoned animals. Rescuers note that the towel and box in her social media posts match items found at the park. Terry Chao took to social media, posting evidence that they had rescued rabbits from Prospect Park just days before Delvey posted her photos. They further allege that a third rabbit remains loose in the area.

Delvey responded publicly, denying any wrongdoing. She asserted that all the rabbits used in her shoot are now with their owners, dismissing claims of abandonment. Her statement came amid calls for witnesses and further proof to clarify her involvement. Meanwhile, her lawyer threatened legal action against those accusing her of animal neglect.

The Role of Delvey's Assistant

The story took an unexpected twist when Delvey's 19-year-old assistant admitted to abandoning the rabbits in a panic. Christian Batty, who was involved in the shoot, explained that he had no experience caring for animals. He claimed that he believed there were already rabbits in the park and, overwhelmed by the situation, released the animals in a moment of distress.

Batty's confession came after initial denials and a series of conflicting statements. He stated that he lied to Delvey and her team about the rabbits' origins, feeling pressured and unsure of what to do.

The Role of Vigilant Rescuers

Thanks to the efforts of animal advocates like Terry Chao, the rabbits have been rescued and are now safe. Chao's vigilance uncovered the similarities between the rabbits she helped rescue and those seen in Delvey's social media posts. Her work, along with Batty's eventual honesty, has been crucial in bringing clarity to the situation.

Animal welfare organisations have called for further investigation, emphasising the importance of responsible pet handling and care. This developing story depicts the dangers of using animals for media shoots without proper procedures or experience. It also highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by Delvey, whose history of deception continues to attract media attention. While Anna Delvey maintains that she was unaware of the rabbits' abandonment, the details emerging suggest a complex web of misjudgement and oversight.