Authorities in Northern California have uncovered the buried remains of more than 100 dogs at a no-kill animal rescue facility amid an ongoing investigation into alleged animal cruelty and fraud. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Division executed a search warrant at Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna, California, between June 23 and June 25, leading to the discovery of multiple mass graves containing canine remains, many showing evidence of gunshot wounds.

The investigation into Miranda’s Rescue began in April after the sheriff’s office received credible information regarding potential animal abuse, cruelty, fraudulent activities, and conspiracy at the rescue. An initial search warrant was executed on May 1, followed by interviews with other animal rescues and witnesses. Authorities found that while hundreds of dogs had been turned over to Miranda’s Rescue, a significant number of animals were unaccounted for.

During the recent search, investigators excavated two primary dig sites on the 50-acre property, recovering 117 intact dog remains at various stages of decomposition. Seventy of these were X-rayed, revealing bullet fragments in many cases. Most of the dogs had microchips, which authorities are now examining to identify the animals and trace their origins. Forensic veterinarians and officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducted necropsies on the site, preliminarily determining gunshot wounds as the cause of death for numerous dogs.

At a nearby location on the property, a separate excavation uncovered 21 skulls, hundreds of bones, and six loose microchips. Due to advanced decomposition, some remains were left undisturbed at the site. Additionally, inside a barn on the premises, law enforcement found an area believed to be where the dogs were killed, along with over 600 dog collars.

Sheriff William Honsal emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages, with a large volume of evidence to analyze and many witnesses to interview before potential criminal charges can be considered. “There is a tremendous amount of data to process, witnesses to interview, and evidence to examine,” Honsal said in a statement. He also acknowledged the support of county, state, and federal agencies, as well as private forensic veterinarians assisting in the investigation.

Miranda’s Rescue, which describes itself on its website as a nonprofit no-kill rescue, adoption, and sanctuary facility, claims to provide relief to hundreds of abused, neglected, or abandoned animals annually. According to the site, the organization does not euthanize animals to free up space but may do so in cases of terminal illness or dangerous behavioral issues.

Shannon Miranda, the founder of the rescue, issued a statement on June 18, prior to the latest search and discovery of remains. Representatives for the organization have not responded to requests for comment. The sheriff’s office continues to pursue the investigation.