Former Baywatch star Alexandra Paul was arrested following an animal rights protest in Wisconsin that involved the release of several beagles from a breeding facility.
The 62-year-old actress was among roughly 60 demonstrators who gathered in Blue Mounds. Authorities say she was one of 20 individuals taken into custody after allegedly trespassing on the property of Ridglan Farms, a facility known for breeding beagles for biomedical research.
According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on March 15, when “some activists broke into the facility and began removing numerous dogs.”
Sheriff Kalvin Barrett acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding the issue, stating that the department respects the public’s concern for the animals but must enforce the law when boundaries are crossed.
He emphasized that while peaceful protest is protected, unlawful actions such as trespassing require a response. He also encouraged those concerned about animal welfare to pursue change through legal and constructive means.
This marks the second time Paul has been arrested in connection with animal activism. In 2021, she faced misdemeanor theft charges after rescuing chickens from a transport truck, though she was later found not guilty.
Ridglan Farms is one of only two facilities in the United States that supplies purpose-bred beagles for research. However, changes are already underway—an agreement reached in October 2025 between the company and local officials will end the sale of such dogs for research by July 2026.
Despite the controversy, the facility maintains that it upholds high standards of animal care, citing accreditation from AAALAC International.
Paul is widely recognized for her role as Lt. Stephanie Holden on Baywatch from 1992 to 1997, where she appeared alongside Pamela Anderson and Nicole Eggert. Beyond the iconic series, she has built a long career with over 100 acting credits.
In a 2025 interview, Paul spoke openly about her commitment to activism and the risks involved. She explained that her actions are often rooted in peaceful civil disobedience, acknowledging that arrest can sometimes be a deliberate part of standing up for causes she believes in.
The incident continues to spark debate over the balance between activism and legality, especially in emotionally charged issues like animal welfare.
