Activists sue Ridglan Farms, Dane County sheriff over April 18 clash

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Scene outside Ridglan Farms on Saturday, April 18.

DANE COUNTY, Wis. - Animals rights activists are suing Ridglan Farms and the Dane County Sheriff over the April 18 clash in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. 

Lawsuit filed

What we know:

The class action lawsuit filed in federal court accuses Ridglan and the sheriff of conspiring to injure and contaminate what it calls "non-violent demonstrators."

The plaintiffs claim deputies used excessive force by deploying "chemical weapons." It also accuses Ridglan Farms of building a biologically, hazardous, manure-filled trench. 

Ridglan response

What they're saying:

In response, Ridglan Farms issued a statement calling the activists a "violent mob." Below is the complete statement: 

"On April 18, a violent mob descended upon Ridglan Farms to launch an assault on a federally licensed research facility. The attack was previously announced and heavily promoted by organizers on a dedicated webpage, via social media and through news outlets nationwide. In response, law enforcement officers were dispatched to protect the property and those inside. As a result, several individuals have already been charged with serious crimes and many more may face significant legal consequences down the road. Law enforcement has a duty to protect and serve residents and businesses, just as a homeowner maintains the right to defend themselves, their family members and their property in response to a home invasion. To suggest otherwise defies logic and is contrary to law. Similarly, the claims made in this lawsuit are without merit."

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