Authorities have uncovered what investigators are calling a horrific scene at a California animal rescue facility, where the remains of at least 117 dogs were discovered during an ongoing multi-agency investigation into allegations of animal cruelty, fraud and conspiracy.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that the remains were found at Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary, a 50-acre facility in Fortuna, California that describes itself as a “no-kill rescue.” The investigation, which involves federal agencies including the FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, began in late April after the sheriff’s office received credible information regarding allegations of felony animal abuse, animal cruelty, fraud and conspiracy.
Using ground-penetrating radar to identify areas with disturbed soil, investigators excavated the property and discovered 117 intact canine remains in various stages of decomposition buried in an open field. The search also yielded 21 canine skulls, hundreds of bones and six loose microchips. Forensic veterinarians and USDA officials examined 70 of the remains on site, and X-rays revealed evidence of bullet fragments in many of them. Investigators believe the cause of death for many of those animals was gunshot wounds.
In a barn on the property, investigators located an area they believe dogs were likely killed. More than 600 dog collars were discovered nearby, adding to the grim evidence at the site. Sheriff William Honsal characterized the discovery as a “horrific scene,” though no charges have been filed as of Friday.
The scope of the investigation extends far beyond the remains already recovered. Investigators have determined that hundreds of dogs were transferred to Miranda’s Rescue by private citizens and animal shelters throughout California. According to Sheriff Honsal, approximately 900 animals were transferred to the facility since January 2025, but investigators have only been able to account for about 116 adoptions. This leaves more than 730 animals unaccounted for, raising concerns about what happened to them.
The investigation began after the sheriff’s office received information in late April. A search warrant was served on May 1, resulting in the discovery of evidence at the facility. Initial findings from that search included evidence of eight deceased dogs. A second search warrant was executed on June 23, authorizing the excavation operation that led to Friday’s discovery.
The facility reportedly accepted animals from shelters across California, charging fees ranging from hundreds to several thousand dollars per animal. Oakland Animal Services, which had transferred 205 dogs to Miranda’s Rescue in the previous year, was among the Bay Area shelters that later severed ties with the facility. Berkeley, Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter, and other municipal shelters have also halted transfers and cut relationships with the rescue in light of the investigation.
Founder and operator Shannon Miranda has issued statements denying wrongdoing. In a June 18 statement posted to the shelter’s website, Miranda claimed that recent media coverage and online commentary had “presented an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture of our work.” Miranda stated that the rescue is committed to not euthanizing animals simply to make space, though acknowledging that “rare circumstances” exist where euthanasia may be necessary for terminally ill animals or those posing serious danger to people or other animals.
In another statement, Miranda wrote that for over 30 years the rescue has devoted itself to saving and caring for animals, describing the mission as balancing “compassion for animals with our responsibility to protect families, children, other pets, and the public.” Despite the investigation, Miranda’s Rescue continues to operate with approximately 50 dogs, along with cats and birds remaining on the property.
Animal control personnel and a veterinarian visit the facility three times weekly to monitor the animals’ welfare. Some animals were removed from the property due to being underweight, though officials reported they are showing signs of improvement.
The investigation has become increasingly complex, involving multiple state and federal agencies. In addition to the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and FBI, the California Department of Justice, the California Attorney General’s Office, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California are all contributing to the investigation. The Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office is also involved.
Sheriff Honsal stated that “this investigation is just getting started,” noting that there is “a tremendous amount of data to process, witnesses to interview, and evidence to examine.” Investigators have already conducted interviews with dozens of animal shelters throughout California and some outside the state, and they have received hundreds of tips through phone calls and emails.
Legal experts have noted that prosecuting animal cruelty cases presents unique challenges. While gunshot wounds to animals have been found, some legal experts have stated that euthanasia by bullet alone may not automatically constitute animal cruelty under California law. However, the investigation could potentially involve charges related to fraud, conspiracy and nonprofit law violations, depending on what evidence emerges.
The sheriff’s office said that once their investigation is complete and all evidence has been reviewed, if investigators determine there is sufficient evidence to support violations of animal cruelty, fraud or other applicable laws, the case will be submitted to the district attorney for review and consideration of charges.