Prosecutors Demand 180-Day Sentence for Activist Zoe Rosenberg in Poultry Case
Prosecutors have requested a 180-day jail sentence for activist Zoe Rosenberg following her felony conviction related to a case involving a poultry facility. The verdict was rendered by a jury on October 29, 2023, after a trial that lasted throughout much of October. Rosenberg, affiliated with the animal rights group Direct Action Everywhere (DxE), was found guilty of conspiracy and three misdemeanor charges.
Details of the Poultry Case
The Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office outlined their recommendations in a brief submitted ahead of Rosenberg’s upcoming sentencing hearing. This document highlighted several reasons for the proposed jail term, including what prosecutors termed as her “staggering” lack of remorse. They observed that alternatives like house arrest would not have the same deterrent effect.
Key Events Leading to Sentencing
- Rosenberg unlawfully entered the Petaluma Poultry facility on May 21 and June 13, 2023.
- She reportedly searched company files, placed GPS trackers on vehicles, and rescued four chickens.
- The actions coincided with the DxE’s annual liberation conference and Rosenberg’s birthday.
- Her arrest occurred outside the courthouse in November 2023, shortly after DxE co-founder Wayne Hsiung received a 90-day jail sentence.
Prosecutors’ Arguments
Prosecutors claimed that custody is the only punishment with real consequences that Rosenberg cannot manipulate. They remarked that her previous actions demonstrated a penchant for transforming consequences into public spectacle.
Health Concerns and Sentencing Implications
As Rosenberg awaits her sentencing, concerns have been raised about her health. She has Type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis, and during her trial, she utilized a feeding tube. Despite these health challenges, prosecutors assured that she would receive adequate medical attention in custody.
Community Response and Forward Plans
Supporters of Rosenberg, including DxE, have mobilized hundreds to attend the upcoming sentencing hearing. They argue that her actions were aimed at exposing ethical issues regarding animal treatment and not malicious intent. They view any potential jail time as “life-threatening” given her medical conditions.
In light of the case, DxE has ramped up its activism, including staging protests and demonstrating against large-scale poultry operations. A recent 2024 ballot measure to limit such practices was rejected by voters.
Judge Kenneth Gnoss is scheduled to make the final ruling on Rosenberg’s sentence, which could be significantly shorter than the maximum of 4.5 years due to standard custody credits. The legal proceedings have sparked widespread debate about animal rights and activism in California.
