‘Baywatch’ Icon Arrested While ‘Freeing Beagles’ – Mugshot Released

Alexandra Paul, the former Baywatch star, has been arrested in Wisconsin after allegedly breaking into a dog breeding facility. The 62-year-old actress was reportedly protesting at Ridglan Farms in Blue Mounds, which breeds beagles for scientific research. A mugshot released on Sunday showed Paul wearing a blue jail-issued shirt, a far cry from her usual TV star style.

According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, “50-60 protesters entered the property without permission” and began taking multiple dogs from the site. Paul was one of around 20 people arrested during the incident, which has attracted attention from local animal rights supporters, WMTV reported.

This isn’t Paul’s first arrest for animal activism. The actress has previously been detained for civil disobedience related to her animal rights campaigns. Police stated that “two vehicles, along with burglary tools and other evidence, were seized at the scene.” They added that while some of the beagles were returned to the facility, several remain missing.

Baywatch actress Alexandra Paul was arrested over the weekend. #iHeartRadio https://t.co/rOD674EjNg

— 640 WHL0 (@640whlo) March 17, 2026

In a statement, authorities said, “The Dane County Sheriff’s Office understands how deeply people feel for the beagles at Ridglan Farms, and we respect their right to express that passion through peaceful protests. Our role is to keep everyone safe and to respond when unlawful activity takes place. We encourage anyone with concerns about animal welfare or research practices to engage through lawful and constructive avenues.”

Wayne Hsiung, co-founder of Direct Action Everywhere, shared footage of the alleged rescue operation on Instagram. The video showed activists carrying beagles out of the facility. Hsiung wrote, “Nonviolent activists rescuing beagles from Ridglan’s breeding facility and bringing them to safety. The remaining beagles still trapped inside cages need our help. Please call the authorities and ask them to take action.” Hsiung was also booked for trespassing on Sunday.

Ridglan Farms said the protesters cut through a chain-link fence and unlocked gates to access multiple buildings. The facility claimed that sledgehammers, electric saws, and crowbars were used during the attempt.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and police have not yet released further details about the missing animals.

This story highlights the tension between activism and the law. While animal welfare is clearly a concern for many, breaking into private property carries serious legal consequences. It’s a tricky situation where passion meets the limits of what’s allowed. What do you think about this incident? Share your thoughts in the comments.