A California Court of Appeal overturned two convictions for an animal rights activist who was found guilty of felony conspiracy and trespassing stemming from actions he took at Petaluma chicken and duck farms in 2018 and 2019, animal rights organization Direction Action Everywhere said Thursday. The animal rights group said the court rejected the prosecutor’s argument that animals are to be categorically excluded from a “necessity defense.” 

Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero announced the recipients of the 2026 Civic Learning Awards, the state’s highest honor recognizing K–12 schools for outstanding achievement in civic education. One elementary school, one middle school, and one high school received the Civic Learning Award of Excellence, highlighting their exceptional programs that empower students to engage meaningfully in their communities and develop lifelong civic skills.

People charged with crimes in California must be granted bail in amounts they can afford unless they are accused of capital offenses, or face serious charges and pose a threat of violence if released, the state Supreme Court ruled unanimously Thursday. Lawyers said the decision could affect thousands of cases.

Cary Anthony Stayner, 64, made a host of challenges in his appeal to the state’s high court. He claimed authorities violated his Miranda rights, that he faced coercive questioning from law enforcement, and that police had no probable cause to arrest him. Stayner also argued the trial court judge made errors ranging from jury selection to judicial bias.