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All Charges Dismissed Against Beagle Rescuers

From DxE Direct Action Everywhere
March 2024

Just 10 days before trial was set to begin, the State of Wisconsin has DROPPED all charges against Eva Hamer, Paul Darwin Picklesimer, and Wayne Hsiung, for the rescue of three beagles from Ridglan Farms, a factory farm that breeds dogs for experimentation.

Beagle rescuers

Just 10 days before trial was set to begin, the State of Wisconsin has DROPPED all charges against Eva Hamer, Paul Darwin Picklesimer, and Wayne Hsiung, for the rescue of three beagles from Ridglan Farms, a factory farm that breeds dogs for experimentation.

We believe this dismissal is the result of pressure and press coverage that made it clear there is public support for animal rescue. Just yesterday, Madison’s independent news source, The Isthmus, published an incredibly positive cover story about the case. Also yesterday, Professor Kristen Stilt at Harvard Law filed a powerful amicus brief with the court, supporting affirmative defenses to animal rescue based on Wisconsin law. The defense team had a powerful case lined up and was feeling optimistic about the chances of acquittal, but the prosecution decided not to give them the chance.

While we are glad that these compassionate people won’t be going to jail, we are infuriated that they have been stripped of the opportunity to clear their names, defend the Right to Rescue, and expose Ridglan Farms in court. Animal-abusing industries continue to use this tactic: holding felony charges over people for years and dropping them all at the last minute. They did it to me in Sonoma County, and investigator Matt Johnson in Iowa. They want to waste our time and energy without letting us put animal abuse on trial.

There is still no justice for Julie, Anna, and Lucy, the distressed and injured beagles who were rescued, or for all the dogs who are still suffering at Ridglan Farms. Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne continues to ignore evidence of animal abuse at Ridglan, including from the USDA’s own records. Now more than ever, we need to keep up the pressure. Public perception -- and even laws around animal testing -- are changing rapidly. Ridgan can no longer hide their abuse of dogs.

They want us to go away, but we will do the exact opposite. We are still mobilizing in Wisconsin for a week of action this March 18th-24th. With no trial taking place, there is more time to protest.

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