Animal Activist Zoe Rosenberg Convicted in Petaluma Poultry ‘Chicken Rescue’ Case

A Sonoma County jury has convicted animal activist Zoe Rosenberg of conspiracy and misdemeanor charges related to a poultry rescue operation at Petaluma Poultry. The case has highlighted the ongoing tension between animal rights groups and the agricultural industry.

Zoe Rosenberg’s Conviction Details

The jury reached a verdict after three and a half hours of deliberation, finding the 23-year-old guilty on all counts. She is a member of Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), a Bay Area organization known for its animal rights activism.

Rosenberg faces a maximum sentence of 4½ years in prison, with sentencing set for December 3, 2023. Currently, she is free on bail but must comply with several restrictions, including wearing an ankle monitor and maintaining a distance from specific animal activists and farms.

Case Background

• Date of Incident: June 13, 2023
• Charges: One felony conspiracy count and three misdemeanors
• Activities Alleged: Trespassing, searching files, and removing chickens from the property

The prosecution claimed that Rosenberg participated in a premeditated operation to rescue four chickens, citing video footage and social media posts that supported their claims of a publicity stunt. The chickens involved were later named Poppy, Ivy, Aster, and Azalea.

Defense Arguments

Rosenberg’s defense argued that her actions were motivated by a moral imperative to aid suffering animals. Her attorney expressed disappointment over the trial’s outcome and criticized the limitations placed on the evidence jurors could consider.

Despite strenuous objections, the judge barred the use of a necessity defense that could have allowed Rosenberg to argue her actions were justified to prevent greater harm.

Reactions and Implications

The verdict has drawn mixed reactions. District Attorney Carla Rodriguez stated, “This verdict affirms that no one is above the law,” highlighting the importance of lawful conduct, even in protest. Meanwhile, supporters of Rosenberg expressed their discontent outside the courthouse.

Broader Context

Direct Action Everywhere has faced similar legal challenges in various states, encountering both successes and setbacks in their activism. The group has received scrutiny for its disruptive tactics and high-profile demonstrations, raising questions about the limits of lawful protest.

This conviction is seen as a major setback for DxE, which advocates for systemic change in animal welfare practices. Activists argue that current laws do not adequately protect animals from mistreatment.

Next Steps for Zoe Rosenberg

Rosenberg plans to appeal the jury’s decision. After the verdict, she expressed no regrets, emphasizing her commitment to animal welfare. “I will not apologize for taking sick, neglected animals to get medical care,” she stated. Her conviction serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between activism and the law, particularly in the context of agriculture and animal rights.