Judge hears arguments in Ridglan Farms activist case over animal treatment

Ridglan Farms activists appeared virtually in court to present their pretrial arguments regarding a March 15 break-in onto the farm's property, CBS 58 reported.

The activists argued they were not guilty of a crime, claiming the dogs at the breeding and testing facility were being abused. Ridglan Farms denies these allegations.

The state, represented by an assistant district attorney, argued that animal abuse is open to interpretation and that the activists' views on animal treatment should not constitute an affirmative defense.

The activists and their lawyer countered that significant evidence shows the facility was abusing animals, citing severe physical and mental health problems in dogs after they were purchased by an out-of-state rescue organization.

The case has attracted national attention, particularly after the beagles were bought from the facility following the break-in.