Santa Rosa, California, December 5, 2025
Zoe Rosenberg, a 23-year-old animal rights activist, was sentenced to 90 days in jail for taking four chickens from Perdue Farms in California. Her actions, deemed a felony conspiracy and trespassing, stirred controversy between animal rights advocates and industrial farming. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding animal welfare and agricultural practices, with Petaluma Poultry denying any mistreatment of the animals. Rosenberg’s defense argued she was rescuing mistreated chickens, but the legal system disagreed, enforcing strict regulations on such activism.
SANTA ROSA, Calif.
Animal Activist Sentenced for Chicken Rescue at Perdue Farms
Zoe Rosenberg, a 23-year-old animal rights activist affiliated with the group Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), has been sentenced to 90 days in jail following her conviction for felony conspiracy, trespassing, and other charges related to taking four chickens from a Perdue Farms poultry plant in Petaluma, California. This case highlights the ongoing conflict between animal rights advocates and industrial farming operations, along with the complexities surrounding animal welfare and legal standards.
Rosenberg’s jury trial lasted seven weeks, culminating in a guilty verdict handed down in October. Prosecutors accused her of trespassing and endangering the safety of employees at the facility. Rosenberg is set to report to the Sonoma County Jail on December 10, but she could serve up to 60 days of her sentence through alternatives like house arrest. Her probation extends for two years, during which she is prohibited from entering any Perdue facilities in Sonoma County.
Details of the Incident
Using a fake badge and earpiece to disguise herself as a worker, Rosenberg gained access to the poultry plant. After taking four chickens—named Poppy, Ivy, Aster, and Azalea—she filmed the act and shared it on social media. The rescued birds were subsequently placed in an animal sanctuary. While Rosenberg views her actions as noble, asserting she acted out of compassion for what she claims was mistreatment, the jury and legal system disagreed.
Industry Response
In contrast, Petaluma Poultry, a subsidiary of Perdue Farms, has denied any allegations of animal mistreatment. The company classified DxE as an extremist group with intentions to disrupt the animal agriculture sector and insisted that the birds were not harmed. Herb Frerichs, the general counsel for Petaluma Poultry, pointed out that these unlawful actions demonstrated a reckless disregard for employee safety, emphasizing the need for accountability in such matters.
Broader Implications
This case underscores the intricate tension between activists advocating for animal welfare and farmers who maintain the importance of their operations in the economy. With many small businesses and farms relying on livestock for their livelihood, the stakes are high. Additionally, the balance of activism versus regulation naturally fuels discourse on how best to ensure animal welfare while supporting economic growth.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Zoe Rosenberg is a poignant reminder of the ongoing discourse around animal rights and industrial farming practices. As the community reflects on this case, it is crucial to recognize the importance of engaging in responsible activism that also considers the livelihoods of those in agriculture. For Austinites and beyond, supporting local businesses that prioritize ethical practices could serve as a constructive approach to creating a more humane and economically viable environment. Citizens are encouraged to stay engaged with local economic discussions and support businesses that align with their values.
What was Zoe Rosenberg convicted of?
Zoe Rosenberg was convicted of felony conspiracy, trespassing, and other charges for taking four chickens from a Perdue Farms poultry plant in Petaluma, California.
What was the sentence imposed on Rosenberg?
Rosenberg was sentenced to 90 days in jail, with the possibility of 60 days served through alternatives such as house arrest. She also received two years of probation and is prohibited from entering any Perdue facilities in Sonoma County.
What was Rosenberg’s defense for taking the chickens?
Rosenberg argued that she was rescuing the birds from mistreatment, claiming she was not breaking the law but acting to rescue the chickens from a cruel situation.
How did Rosenberg gain access to the Perdue Farms facility?
Rosenberg testified that she disguised herself as a plant worker using a fake badge and earpiece to gain access to the facility.
What was Petaluma Poultry’s response to the incident?
Petaluma Poultry, a subsidiary of Perdue Farms, denied the allegations of mistreatment, describing DxE as an extremist group intent on disrupting the animal agriculture industry and maintaining that the animals were not harmed.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Conviction | Felony conspiracy, trespassing, and other charges |
| Sentence | 90 days in jail, with 60 days possible through alternatives like house arrest; two years of probation; prohibition from entering Perdue facilities in Sonoma County |
| Defense Argument | Rescue of mistreated animals |
| Method of Access | Disguised as a plant worker using a fake badge and earpiece |
| Company’s Response | Denial of mistreatment allegations; description of DxE as an extremist group; assertion that animals were not harmed |
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