Ridglan Farms Response

March 16, 2026
Elise Schaffer, PIO, (608) 284-6142
Sheriff's Office

On Sunday, March 15th, at about 8:30 AM, Dane County Sheriff’s deputies, along with officers from Mt. Horeb, Verona, City of Madison, and UW Police, responded to Ridglan Farms in the town of Blue Mounds when 50-60 protestors entered the property without permission. 
Some activists broke into the facility and began removing numerous dogs. Approximately 20 people were arrested, including Wayne Hsiung, 44, from New York, Aditya V. Aswani, 29, from Brooklyn, NY, and Dean F. Wyrzykowski, 29, from San Francisco, CA. Aswani was booked into Dane County Jail on a tentative burglary charge, while Hsiung and Wyrzykowski were booked on tentative criminal trespass charges. Everyone involved has been cooperative and respectful.
“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.”
Two vehicles, along with burglary tools and other evidence, were seized at the scene. Some of the beagles taken were recovered and returned to Ridglan Farms, but several beagles remain unaccounted for. This is an ongoing investigation, and more details may become available as it progresses. We truly appreciate the assistance from local police agencies and our partners at the Dane County Communications Center, especially given the treacherous weather conditions. 
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. Following an animal welfare investigation, Ridglan Farms agreed to surrender its DATC breeding license by July 1st, 2026.