Former 'Baywatch' Star Alexandra Paul Arrested in Wisconsin Animal Rights Protest
Alexandra Paul, known for her role in the TV series 'Baywatch', was arrested on March 15 in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, following an animal rights demonstration at Ridglan Farms. Authorities reported that a group of protesters entered the facility and removed dogs from the property, leading to her detention along with approximately 20 other individuals.
Details of the Arrest and Protest Incident
According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, around 50 to 60 protesters allegedly trespassed at Ridglan Farms at approximately 8:30 a.m. on March 15. During the demonstration, some activists entered the facility and began removing several dogs, specifically beagles. Authorities later recovered and returned some of the animals, but several remained unaccounted for at the time of the report. Investigators seized two vehicles, burglary tools, and other evidence from the scene. Paul, aged 62, was among those taken into custody, and she remained in police custody as the case continued under investigation.
Background on Ridglan Farms and Recent Changes
Ridglan Farms is a Wisconsin facility that has faced scrutiny for its dog breeding practices aimed at scientific research. The incident occurs months after a significant agreement in October 2025, where the La Crosse County District Attorney and Ridglan Farms decided that the business would no longer operate under its Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection license. Additionally, it agreed to stop selling dogs purposefully bred for biomedical research by July 1, 2026. According to reports, Ridglan Farms is one of only two large dog breeders in the United States that offer experimentation for scientific research, highlighting the facility's controversial role in the industry.
Authorities' Response and Call for Peaceful Dialogue
Sheriff Kalvin Barrett of the Dane County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the agency's understanding of public passion for the beagles at Ridglan Farms and respect for the right to peaceful protest. He stated, "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." Barrett added that the Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining public safety, promoting peaceful dialogue, and ensuring all parties exercise their rights within legal boundaries.
Alexandra Paul's History of Animal Activism
This arrest marks another chapter in Paul's long-standing animal rights activism. Three years prior, in September 2021, she faced misdemeanor theft charges for allegedly taking two chickens from a Foster Farms truck. She testified in Merced County in March 2023 and was found not guilty, as reported by The Fresno Bee. In a 2011 interview with PETA, Paul shared that her activism began when she became a vegetarian at age 14 and later transitioned to veganism at 47. She also stated that she avoids wearing leather, wool, silk, and fur, and includes clauses in her acting contracts to not use makeup tested on animals, underscoring her deep commitment to ethical practices.
The protest and arrest at Ridglan Farms bring renewed attention to the ongoing debates over animal rights and research ethics, with Paul's involvement highlighting the intersection of celebrity activism and social causes.
