UPDATE: Animal rights activist Zoe Rosenberg is set to be released from Sonoma County Jail on Wednesday, following a significant announcement from the protest group Direct Action Everywhere. Rosenberg, 23, will serve the final 60 days of her 90-day sentence on house arrest after being granted early release due to good behavior.
Rosenberg’s case gained national attention, marking the most high-profile prosecution linked to a series of protests at Petaluma Poultry in 2023. She was convicted of felony conspiracy and three misdemeanors after a jury verdict on October 29. The protests aimed to expose what activists describe as inhumane conditions at local farms, a claim vehemently denied by the farm operators.
The activist turned herself in on December 10 and has been serving her sentence since then. Her health has been a critical concern during her incarceration, as she suffers from Type 1 diabetes and gastroparesis, requiring a feeding tube. Supporters feared that jail time could pose severe risks to her health.
Cassie King, a spokesperson for Direct Action Everywhere, reported that Rosenberg has been able to maintain her insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor while incarcerated. “She’s doing OK but not feeling well,” King stated, emphasizing that public pressure has played a crucial role in ensuring Rosenberg’s safety during her time in jail.
A petition advocating for her pardon, directed at Gov. Gavin Newsom, has amassed nearly 40,000 signatures. King noted that officials from the governor’s office have indicated that Rosenberg’s case is “on his radar” and under review.
Upon her release, Rosenberg will face strict house arrest conditions, which prohibit visitors and limit her grocery shopping to just two hours per week. This development has sparked a mix of relief and concern among her supporters, who continue to rally for her cause.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of Rosenberg’s release will be closely monitored. Activists are expected to continue their efforts to advocate for animal rights, particularly in light of the recent rejection of a ballot measure aimed at banning large animal farms in Sonoma County in 2024.
Watch for further updates on Rosenberg’s case and the ongoing activism surrounding animal rights in California.
