Alexandra Paul, best known for her role on Baywatch, was taken into custody in Wisconsin over the weekend following her involvement in an animal rights protest that led to the removal of beagles from a controversial breeding facility.
The 62-year-old actress was arrested Sunday morning and booked on a trespassing charge, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, a facility known for breeding beagles used in scientific research, which has long been a target of animal welfare activists.
Authorities reported that dozens of protesters entered the property without permission and began taking dogs from the site, leading to around 20 arrests. Some of the animals were later recovered, though several remain unaccounted for. Law enforcement also stated that vehicles and tools were seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
In an official statement, Sheriff Kalvin Barrett acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding the issue but emphasized the importance of lawful protest, urging activists to pursue change through legal channels.
The operation was also documented by Wayne Hsiung, co-founder of Direct Action Everywhere, who claimed that more than 20 dogs were “rescued” during the action. He was among those arrested and faces similar charges.
This is far from the first time Paul has been detained for activism. Over the decades, she has been arrested multiple times for civil disobedience tied to causes ranging from anti-war demonstrations to HIV advocacy and environmental and animal rights campaigns. Since joining Direct Action Everywhere in 2016, she has frequently participated in protests and rescue operations involving farm animals.
Despite the legal consequences, Paul has remained a committed activist, continuing to use her public profile to advocate for causes she believes in. The investigation into the latest incident is still ongoing.
