Blue Mounds, Wisconsin – A protest at Ridglan Farms drew about 200 people Sunday, prompting a law enforcement response following arrests tied to an attempted break-in the day before.
According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, the crowd assembled just after noon on a roadway in front of the farm in the Town of Blue Mounds and demonstrated for approximately two hours before dispersing and moving toward downtown Madison.
Officials said the gathering remained peaceful, in contrast to Saturday’s incident, when approximately 25 individuals were arrested after allegedly attempting to break into the property.
Authorities identified several of those arrested, including Wayne Hsiung, 44, of New York, described as the group’s organizer. Others named include Aditya Aswani, 29, of New York; Melany P. Brieno, 26, of Middleton; and Dean Wyrzykowski, 29, of San Francisco. All are allegedly facing tentative felony charges of conspiracy to commit burglary.
In a separate case, Michelle D. Lunsky, 33, of Mesa, Arizona, is allegedly charged with second-degree recklessly endangering safety after authorities said she drove a vehicle erratically onto the property and through a crowd. Most individuals arrested were later booked and released, officials said.
Sheriff Kalvin Barrett stated the office supports lawful protest activity and noted the group’s cooperation during Sunday’s demonstration.
The events prompted assistance from multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies across Dane County and Wisconsin.
The protest and related arrests may affect commuters and students traveling between Blue Mounds and Madison due to increased law enforcement presence over the weekend.
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