December 5, 2025 – Santa Rosa, California — A Sonoma County district judge sentenced activist Zoe Rosenberg to 90 days in jail following a jury’s conviction on all charges related to a 2023 break-in at Petaluma Poultry, including felony conspiracy and three misdemeanors regarding her unlawful entry and theft of livestock.

The verdict and sentencing capped a multi-day trial in which jurors rejected Rosenberg’s unsubstantiated claim that she acted because of poor living conditions for the animals she stole. The evidence presented at trial showed the break-in was planned in advance and part of a broader campaign by Direct Action Everywhere to disrupt local agricultural operations in their mission to end animal agriculture.

“Defendant and her organization, Direct Action Everywhere (DxE) showed a remarkable lack of credibility during these proceedings. As the jury’s quick verdict demonstrated, their claims without exception were built on selective omissions, misunderstandings, and a willingness to ignore clear facts that cut against their narrative,” said Sonoma County District Attorney Carla Rodriguez after the sentencing. “Simply stated, breaking into a heavily regulated, biosecure food processing facility that supplies food to consumers in this county and across the country is dangerous and illegal. Strong beliefs do not excuse fabricated conclusions, and they do not place anyone above the law.”

Throughout the trial, Rosenberg and her DxE associates testified under oath to breaking multiple laws as part of a coordinated campaign against Petaluma Poultry and demonstrated no remorse for their actions.

“The People of Sonoma County have come together to reject extreme animal activism,” said Dayna Ghirardelli, the Executive Director of Sonoma County Farm Bureau. “Sonoma County voters sent a strong message last fall that we support family farmers. A jury sent a strong message this fall that we support law and order. The community continues to send a strong message that we won’t tolerate extreme, reckless actions, and those who believe they’re above the law will be held accountable. I commend the jury, our community, and the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office for rejecting these inexcusable tactics. It is my hope the outcome of this case ushers in a new era of peace and respect for divergent opinions, with justice for those who brush civility and the rule of law aside.”

Petaluma Poultry reiterated its focus on responsible farming, employee safety, and maintaining the trust of the local community.

Herb Frerichs, General Counsel, Petaluma Poultry said, “This decision underscores the seriousness of Direct Action Everywhere’s actions and upholds the rule of law. It affirms a basic truth: when you break the law, you’ll be held responsible. We’re grateful that DxE has been held to account for its unlawful campaign – training and paying staff to carry out dangerous, unauthorized intrusions onto private property.”

Petaluma Poultry remains focused on responsible farming, the well-being of our associates, and the rigorous standards that keep our food supply safe. We appreciate the community’s ongoing support and remain committed to transparency and partnership across Sonoma County.

Any restitution awarded to Petaluma Poultry in this case will be donated to local Sonoma County food banks as part of our commitment to supporting the community.

About Petaluma Poultry

Petaluma Poultry, the home of ROCKY® The Free Range and ROSIE® The Original Organic Chicken, provides locally raised, fresh organic and free-range chicken with ranches, feed mill and packing operations in and around Sonoma County.

As a pioneer in free-range and organic poultry, we are dedicated to sustainable farming practices that renew natural resources. Our goal is to produce the finest free-range and organic poultry products while reducing waste, preserving our environment, supporting our employees, and contributing to our local communities.