Police Repel Activists at Wisconsin Beagle Facility, Arrest Leader

Police in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, clashed with hundreds of animal rights activists on Saturday, using tear gas and pepper spray to repel an attempt to enter a beagle breeding and research facility, resulting in the arrest of the group's leader.

The incident occurred at Ridglan Farms, located in the small town about 25 miles southwest of Madison. Between 300 and 400 protesters from the Coalition to Save the Ridglan Dogs gathered to seize beagles from the site, which houses an estimated 2,000 dogs. Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett described the action as violent, stating in a video that demonstrators ignored designated protest areas, blocked roads to hinder emergency access, and tried to assault officers. "This is not a peaceful protest," Barrett said.

Protesters attempted to breach security measures, including a manure-filled trench, hay bales, and a barbed-wire fence. While some managed to pass through the fence, none reached the main facility buildings. The group had announced plans for a Sunday operation but launched the effort a day early. Wayne Hsiung, the coalition's leader, was arrested at the scene; he posted a photo of his detention on the social media platform X.