Animal Rights Activist Convicted on Charges

Hsiung, 42, was convicted on two misdemeanor trespassing counts, one of which involved trespassing with the intent to disrupt a lawful business. Additionally, he faces a felony charge for conspiracy to commit trespass. The jury reached a deadlock on a second felony conspiracy charge.

Representing himself at trial, Hsiung compared his actions to breaking a car window to rescue a trapped child or pet on a hot day. Citing California law, code 597e, he justified taking birds he claimed were sick and dying for veterinary care.

Following the verdict, Hsiung was escorted out of the courthouse in Santa Rosa, California, by three sheriff's deputies while handcuffed. This is not the first time Hsiung has faced legal charges. Denied bail, he is slated to remain in jail until his sentencing hearing scheduled at the end of November.