The long-running criminal case surrounding the Natural Bridge Zoo took another step forward this week as a Rockbridge County judge ordered the defendants to face trial separately rather than as a single group.
The decision comes just days after the Virginia Attorney General’s Office announced that two missing giraffe calves connected to the investigation had been located and placed in a specialized care facility.
During a motions hearing Wednesday, prosecutors asked the court to combine some of the cases tied to the animal welfare investigation that began more than three years ago. Investigators have gathered a massive amount of evidence, including digital records, text messages, and other communications involving zoo owners and individuals connected to the operation.
However, Judge Christopher Russell ruled that the cases will move forward separately.
The court ordered three individual trials:
• One involving zoo owners Sasha, Debbie, and Karl Mogensen
• A second involving veterinarian Dr. Ashley Spencer
• A third involving former elephant trainer Mark Easley
The hearing also addressed a dispute involving records sought from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). Defense attorneys argued that PETA may have used a confidential informant connected to the zoo and requested records from the organization.
PETA asked the court to block the request, arguing it was overly broad. The judge partially agreed, ordering a narrower request and giving the organization 45 days to provide any relevant materials.
The latest court developments come amid renewed public attention following the discovery of two giraffe calves that authorities say were removed from the zoo in violation of a court order.
According to the Virginia Office of the Attorney General, the calves were allegedly taken from the zoo around April 2025 while the broader investigation was ongoing. Their whereabouts remained unknown for more than a year.
Earlier this month, authorities announced the calves had been located and safely relocated to a facility specializing in giraffe care. Officials say the animals are now receiving medical and behavioral support.
The disappearance of the calves drew national attention. In November, actress Alicia Silverstone partnered with PETA to offer a $50,000 reward for information leading to their safe return.
Animal welfare advocates have argued that separating young giraffes from their mothers can have lasting impacts. According to statements released following the recovery, the calves had been separated from their mothers shortly after birth.
While the recovery of the giraffes has become one of the most talked-about developments in the case, it remains unclear what impact, if any, the discovery will have on the pending criminal proceedings.
Following the announcement that the calves had been found, the court imposed a gag order limiting what parties involved in the case can publicly discuss.
Another motions hearing is scheduled for August 3. Any additional matters that attorneys want the court to consider must be filed by July 17.
At this time, no trial dates have been set.
For many Virginians who have followed the Natural Bridge Zoo controversy for years, the recovery of the giraffe calves marked a significant milestone. However, the legal battle surrounding the zoo and the allegations that sparked the investigation appear far from over.