Over 1,000 animal rights activists attempted to break into Ridglan Farms, a beagle breeding facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, on Saturday, April 18. The chaotic scene involved tear gas, pepper spray, and arrests, with conflicting accounts from law enforcement, activists, and the facility.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett stated that between 300 and 400 protesters were "violently trying to break into the property" and assaulting officers. Police used tear gas and pepper spray to disperse the crowd, arresting the group's leader, Wayne Hsiung. Activists attempted to overcome barricades, including a manure-filled trench and barbed-wire fences, but were unable to enter the facility where an estimated 2,000 beagles are kept.
Deeper Dive & Context
Background on Ridglan Farms
Ridglan Farms is licensed by the state as a dog breeding operation, supplying beagles to laboratories for medical and scientific testing. The facility has operated for nearly 60 years. In March, protesters broke into the facility and took 30 dogs, leading to 27 arrests on trespassing and other charges.
Protesters' Perspective
Activists, including Julie Vrzeski, expressed frustration after failing to seize any dogs. The Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs had publicized plans for a second operation but launched it a day early. Protesters later moved to demonstrate outside the jail in downtown Madison.
Law Enforcement Response
Sheriff Barrett emphasized that the protest was not peaceful, citing road blockages and assaults on officers. Ridglan Farms reported that a person drove a pickup truck through the front gate, nearly hitting police and staff, and was arrested.
Legal and Policy Implications
The Dane County Sheriff's Office has sought charges against 62 people connected to the March raid. The April 18 incident remains under investigation, with one arrest confirmed. The facility's operations and the legality of animal testing for medical research remain central to the debate.