Zoe Rosenberg is facing nearly five years in prison, not for causing harm, but for trying to stop it.

In June 2023, Zoe rescued four severely neglected chickens—Poppy, Ivy, Aster, and Azalea—from Perdue’s Petaluma Poultry slaughterhouse in Sonoma County, California. These animals were suffering: trapped on their backs, wounded, and denied basic care. Zoe didn’t hide what she did. She went public the same day, because for her, this was an act of compassion, not a crime.

Now, Zoe is on trial in Sonoma County Superior Court. Prosecutors under District Attorney Carla Rodriguez are pursuing felony and misdemeanor charges against her. Yet the court has barred the jury from hearing about the broader animal cruelty that prompted the rescue. Media access has also been denied.

Before the rescue, Zoe and other activists with Direct Action Everywhere repeatedly reported abuse at the facility to local authorities, the USDA, and law enforcement—without result. And since her arrest months later, Zoe has endured extreme pre-trial conditions: a GPS ankle monitor, warrantless searches, and tight travel restrictions.

This case isn’t just about one person. It’s about whether rescuing sick, suffering animals from abuse will be treated as a crime, or as an act of conscience.

We are calling on Sonoma County District Attorney Carla Rodriguez to drop all remaining charges against Zoe Rosenberg. The public sees this case for what it is: an attempt to punish someone for doing what authorities failed to do—act when animals were in distress.

Zoe didn’t profit from this act. She didn’t hide. The animals are alive and well today because she stepped in when no one else would. Sign now to stand with Zoe—and to say clearly: compassion is not a crime.

Photo: World Animal News