Former 'Baywatch' Star Arrested in Beagle Rescue Raid

Animal rights activists broke into a Wisconsin dog breeding facility and removed over 20 beagles, leading to multiple arrests.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 7:20am

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A group of animal rights activists, including former Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul, were arrested after entering a dog-breeding site in Wisconsin and removing over 20 beagles in what organizers described as a 'rescue' operation. The incident took place on March 15, 2026 at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, a location long targeted by campaigners for its role in supplying animals for research. Authorities said dozens of protesters unlawfully entered the property, with approximately 20 people taken into custody.

Why it matters

The case has drawn attention to the ongoing legal debates over animal research and the use of direct action by campaigners. While activists argue the action was necessary to prevent further harm to the dogs, authorities have urged individuals to pursue concerns through lawful means.

The details

The protest was organized as an 'open rescue', a tactic used by activist groups in which participants publicly document their actions without concealing their identities. Video showed individuals wearing protective clothing carrying dogs from the site, and authorities said tools including pry bars and saws were used to gain access. The group said the aim was to remove dogs they believed were at risk, while the facility maintains it operates within federal guidelines and supports research.

  • The incident took place on March 15, 2026.
  • Ridglan Farms had agreed to surrender its license to sell dogs for research by July 2026 as part of a settlement with local authorities.

The players

Alexandra Paul

A former Baywatch actress who was among the activists arrested during the raid.

Ridglan Farms

A dog-breeding facility in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin that has long been targeted by animal rights campaigners for its role in supplying animals for research.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Wisconsin.”

— Robert Jenkins, Dane County Sheriff's Office spokesperson

What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, with those arrested expected to appear in court at a later date. Authorities have not confirmed how many dogs remain missing following the break-in.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between animal rights activists and research facilities, as well as the legal challenges surrounding direct action protests and the protection of private property rights.