UPDATE: A Sonoma County jury is currently deliberating the fate of Zoe Rosenberg, a 23-year-old animal rights activist from Berkeley, accused of trespassing and taking four chickens from a Petaluma poultry facility during a controversial protest two years ago. The verdict could significantly impact animal rights activism in the region.
Deliberations began earlier today after closing arguments were delivered by both Rosenberg’s defense team and prosecutors from the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office. The trial has attracted national attention, primarily due to Rosenberg’s association with Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), a Bay Area-based organization known for its aggressive protests against animal cruelty.
During the three-week trial, the prosecution argued that Rosenberg’s actions were driven by a desire to promote her organization rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the animals. On June 13, 2023, Rosenberg reportedly entered the Petaluma Poultry facility, searched company files, attached GPS devices to vehicles, and took four birds, all of which was filmed and later publicized by DxE.
“There is a clear intent here,” said Deputy District Attorney Matthew Hobson during his closing argument. “An organized intent.”
Hobson emphasized that the timing of the incidents coincided with DxE’s annual Animal Liberation Conference, suggesting a coordinated effort to gain media attention. He questioned Rosenberg’s claims of animal distress, arguing that her defense lacked credible evidence beyond testimonies from her peers.
In response, defense attorney Chris Carraway asserted that Rosenberg acted out of compassion. “This is about Zoe Rosenberg’s sincere belief birds were suffering at a slaughterhouse,” he told jurors. He argued that rescuing even a few chickens could still raise awareness about animal cruelty.
Rosenberg faces one felony conspiracy charge and three misdemeanors related to multiple trespassing incidents at the facility. If convicted, she could face a sentence ranging from probation to five years in jail.
This case follows a previous incident involving DxE co-founder Wayne Hsiung, who was sentenced to 90 days in jail and two years’ probation for similar actions in November 2023. Rosenberg was arrested outside the courthouse shortly after Hsiung’s sentencing.
Another DxE member, Raven Deerbrook, testified that she independently investigated animal cruelty at the facility and later shared her findings with Rosenberg. This testimony adds another layer to the ongoing debate about the ethics of animal rights protests.
The outcome of this trial could resonate deeply within Sonoma County, where DxE has ramped up its activism, including protests against major meat producers. The group previously supported a failed 2024 ballot measure aimed at banning large-scale poultry and livestock operations.
As the jury continues its deliberations, the stakes remain high not only for Rosenberg but for the future of animal rights activism in California and beyond. Observers are keenly watching to see how this pivotal case will shape the landscape for both animal rights advocates and the agricultural industry.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
