Planned Protest at Ridglan Farms

April 15, 2026
schaffer@danesheriff.com
Sheriff's Office

Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett is addressing the planned demonstration at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026.

“I empathize deeply with the strong feelings and perspectives of community members who care passionately about the welfare of animals,” said Sheriff Barrett.  

Sheriff Barrett reaffirmed the Dane County Sheriff’s Office’s (DCSO) unwavering commitment to protecting constitutional rights while maintaining public safety.  “We fully support the First Amendment right to peaceful protest. Individuals have the right to express their views lawfully and without violence. Our office will work diligently to keep and maintain the peace for all parties involved: protesters, facility staff, neighbors, and the animals themselves.”

The Sheriff emphasized that the DCSO will respond appropriately to any violations of the law. “We will enforce the law impartially and decisively if necessary.  This includes addressing trespassing, burglary, criminal damage to property, obstruction of an investigation, and any other illegal actions. The DCSO will utilize all available resources to ensure peace is maintained at all times.”

Sheriff Barrett noted particular concern about reports suggesting a large-scale action involving up to 2,000 participants entering the property.  “A gathering of that magnitude storming private property would create significant safety risks and force the DCSO to respond accordingly to protect lives, property, and public order.”

The Sheriff’s Office has referred charges to the Dane County District Attorney against 62 people involved in the March 15th break-in at Ridglan Farms. The charges include burglary (33), burglary, party to a crime (18), conspiracy to commit burglary (8), possession of burglary tools (2), receiving/possession of stolen property (2), trespassing (2), and criminal damage to property (3). A neighbor who attempted to intervene is tentatively charged with reckless driving and criminal damage to property.

“While I empathize with the perspectives of all involved in this emotionally charged issue, breaking into and stealing property from a private, state, and federally licensed facility is not the appropriate response,” Sheriff Barrett stated. “We encourage everyone to pursue their concerns through lawful and constructive channels.  This includes state and federal legislators and licensing departments.”

In response to reports of potential animal welfare issues, the DCSO is coordinating a walkthrough site visit with investigators, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), and animal control officials. “If any violations are observed during this visit or through our ongoing work, a fair and impartial investigation will be conducted,” the Sheriff added.

The Dane County Sheriff’s Office urges all participants to prioritize safety, respect private property, and demonstrate peacefully within the bounds of the law. Law enforcement will be present to facilitate lawful expression while preventing illegal activity.

The Dane County Sheriff’s Office serves the residents of Dane County with professionalism, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice and community safety. For more information on this matter, an FAQ page is available on our website at Ridglan Farms, and Sheriff Barrett also shared a video message that is available at YouTube