Animal rights activists break into Wisconsin beagle farm, 20 arrested
By Sam Schmitz
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BLUE MOUNDS, Wisconsin (WISN) — Nearly 20 animal rights activists were arrested after breaking into Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds to remove several dogs.
Ridglan Farms is a facility that breeds beagles used in biomedical research.
The Dane County Sheriff’s Office said deputies and other law enforcement agencies arrived at the farm after reports of nearly 60 protesters breaking in and removing dogs.
Some of the activists arrested are from New York and California, including attorney Wayne Hsiung.
“Are we trying to get attention? Of course,” Hsiung 12 News on Tuesday. “In today’s political environment, the only way to get anything done is to get some attention. Dr. King was famous for saying the goal of an effective activist is to dramatize an issue and force people to negotiate. That’s what we’re trying to do.”
The sheriff’s office said they were cooperative and respectful with law enforcement.
“Ridglan Farms would like to thank local authorities for their rapid response which resulted in multiple arrests and the protection of countless animals,” an attorney for Ridglan Farms said in a statement. “We plan to press charges and hope those involved are punished the full extent of the law.”
Two vehicles, some burglary tools and other evidence were seized at the scene, the sheriff’s office said.
Some of the beagles taken were recovered and returned to Ridglan Farm. Some beagles are still unaccounted for, the sheriff’s office said.
“The Dane County Sheriff’s Office understands how deeply people feel for the beagles at Ridglan Farms, and we respect their right to express that passion through peaceful protests,” said Sheriff Kalvin Barrett. “Our role is to keep everyone safe and to respond when unlawful activity takes place. We encourage anyone with concerns about animal welfare or research practices to engage through lawful and constructive avenues. The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining public safety, promoting peaceful dialogue, and ensuring that all parties can exercise their rights within the bounds of the law.”
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP), along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is responsible for the oversight of the Ridglan Farms facility, the sheriff’s office stated. Ridglan Farms agreed to surrender its DATC breeding license by July 1 this year after an animal welfare investigation.
The sheriff’s office said they are still investigating the incident.
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