Baywatch Link in Dane County Break-In Sparks Around 20 Arrests
Authorities in Dane County arrested roughly 20 people after a group of protesters entered Ridglan Farms and removed multiple dogs, the county sheriff’s office said. The break-in, which deputies say began around 8: 30 am ET Sunday, has drawn widespread attention after some reports linked a baywatch actor to the action; that connection remains unverified.
Arrests, Names and Evidence Seized
The sheriff’s office said it responded to the Town of Blue Mounds facility when an estimated 50 to 60 protesters went onto the property without permission. Deputies allege the group broke into the breeding facility and removed multiple dogs; a local coalition stated 31 dogs were taken, eight of which were intercepted by police.
Among those arrested were Wayne Hsiung, 44, Aditya V. Aswani, 29, and Dean F. Wyrzykowski, 29. Aswani faces a tentative burglary charge while Hsiung and Wyrzykowski are accused of criminal trespassing charges. Deputies seized two vehicles, tools described as for conducting a burglary, and other evidence.
Law enforcement said some of the dogs were later found and returned to Ridglan Farms, while several remained unaccounted for. The sheriff’s office and state and federal agricultural agencies are overseeing aspects of the situation at the facility.
Baywatch Mention Fuels Public Interest
Online coverage and social media attention escalated when posts linked a Baywatch performer to the operation. The social media circulation of that claim has amplified scrutiny of the break-in, but officials have not confirmed that connection as part of the public arrest notices and related statements that identified other individuals.
Public concern focused not only on the alleged theft of animals but also on reports of how activists gained access. Ridglan Farms said activists cut a chain-link fence and a locked gate and attempted to enter several buildings using sledgehammers, electric saws and crowbars.
Context, Allegations and Next Steps
Ridglan Farms breeds beagles for scientific research and has been the subject of protests and legal challenges centered on animal welfare. The facility agreed to surrender its breeding license by July 1 following an animal welfare investigation, the sheriff’s office noted.
An attorney and activist who helped organize the effort alleged the dogs at the facility are subjected to abuse. Ridglan Farms has denied allegations of animal abuse and stated it operates within state and federal regulations.
Sheriff Kalvin Barrett commented on the enforcement response: “The Dane County Sheriff’s Office understands how deeply people feel for the beagles at Ridglan Farms, and we respect their right to express that passion through peaceful protests. 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. The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining public safety, promoting peaceful dialogue, and ensuring that all parties can exercise their rights within the bounds of the law. ”
State and federal agricultural agencies are identified as the authorities in charge of oversight at the facility as the legal and administrative aftermath proceeds. Investigations into the break-in, the number of animals removed and the full list of those involved are ongoing; claims about celebrity involvement remain unverified as law enforcement continues its work.
