A California-based animal rights activist has been sentenced to 90 days in county jail after illegally removing live chickens from a poultry facility operated by Perdue Farms in 2023. The case has sparked major debate over the boundaries between activism and the law.
Zoe Rosenberg, 23, a resident of Berkeley, was found guilty of conspiracy and trespassing after participating in the removal of four live chickens from the Petaluma Poultry plant in Sonoma County. According to the District Attorney’s office, Rosenberg has been ordered to surrender to authorities by December 10. However, she may serve 60 days through electronic home confinement alternatives.
What Happened at the Perdue Farms Facility?
Prosecutors revealed that the incident caused significant financial damage. Petaluma Poultry, which is owned by Maryland-based giant Perdue Farms, documented over $100,000 in losses due to the break-in and disruption caused during the act.
Rosenberg was originally facing a potential 4.5-year prison sentence, following a lengthy seven-week trial. The jury ultimately convicted her on multiple charges:
- One felony count of conspiracy
- Two counts of trespassing
- One count of tampering with a vehicle
Activist Group Responds to the Ruling
Rosenberg is associated with Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), an animal welfare group based in Berkeley. The organization defended her actions, claiming she had “rescued” the chickens from cruel conditions.
During her sentencing hearing, Rosenberg stated:
“I feel remorse for every animal I couldn’t save.”
DxE has confirmed that her legal team has already filed an appeal against the verdict.
Legal Message From Authorities
Sonoma County District Attorney Carla Rodriguez firmly defended the court’s decision:
“No one is above the law. Trespassing, disrupting businesses, and endangering workers and animals cannot be justified in the name of activism.”
According to officials, the sentence sends a strong legal message that activism does not give permission to break the law or interfere with lawful businesses.
Leave a Reply