Today, Friday 8th March 2024, in a stunning development, the State of Wisconsin moved to dismiss felony charges against activists who rescued three beagles from one of the largest animal research facilities in the United States: Ridglan Farms.
In 2017, DxE (@directactioneverywhere) investigators entered the facility and rescued three dogs. Eva Hamer, Paul Darwin Picklesmir, and Wayne Hsiung were charged with felony burglary and felony theft charges, facing potentially up to 16 years in prison.
However, 10 days before the trial was set to start (March 18), all charges against Eva, Paul & Wayne were dropped. The activists believe this dismissal is the result of public pressure supporting the right to rescue.
Over the last few decades, beagles from Ridglan have faced nightmarish abuse and exploitation. And still, the Dane County District Attorney’s office has failed to prosecute Ridglan Farms for criminal animal cruelty.