Activist accused in Ridglan Farms break-in pleads not guilty, asks to represent himself in court

MADISON, Wisc. (CBS 58) -- A man accused in a break-in at Ridglan Farms in Dane County pleaded not guilty Thursday, May 21, during his arraignment in connection with a protest that activists say became a rescue operation involving beagles at the facility.

The hearing was much quieter than previous court appearances. There were no supporters or protest signs, largely because Wayne Hsiung and three other defendants appeared by Zoom.

In total, 27 people were arrested in connection with the case.

The charges stem from a March 15 protest at Ridglan Farms. Hsiung, along with several other people, is accused of breaking into the property and attempting to remove several dogs from the facility. He was arrested April 18 and charged with four felony counts.

According to the Animal Activist Legal Defense Project, activists removed several dogs from the facility during the protest. The group said in press release law enforcement recovered eight dogs and returned them to Ridglan Farms, though the dogs’ current condition and whereabouts are unknown. Another 22 dogs were allegedly removed by activists and placed in homes.

During Thursday’s hearing, Hsiung pleaded not guilty and waived his right to an attorney, saying he intends to represent himself in court. He is a lawyer by trade. 

“Has anyone forced threatened you or promised you anything to get you to make this decision to wave council and represent yourself,” Judge Hyland asked.

“No, your honor, I've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time,” said Wayne Hsiung, leader of the Ridglan Farms protest.

Meanwhile, 1,500 beagles were removed from the facility after Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for Humane Economy purchased the dogs from Ridglan Farms for an undisclosed amount.

On Thursday, a half-dozen of those beagles were available for adoption at the Humane Animal Welfare Society in Waukesha.

About 500 beagles remain at Ridglan Farms. The two organizations that purchased the first 1,500 dogs are still negotiating with Ridglan Farms to purchase the remaining animals.

Hsiung is due back in court June 2, when he is expected to ask for a no-contact order involving the other defendants in the case to be lifted.