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At least 117 dead dogs found in ‘horrific scene’ at California ‘no-kill’ shelter
Investigators say 70 of the dogs were X-rayed and many showed bullet fragments as the case expands into alleged cruelty and fraud.
Investigators recovered 117 intact dog remains at Miranda's Rescue in Fortuna, California, during a search warrant operation between June 23 and June 25, confirming allegations of animal cruelty and fraud.
The investigation began in April after the sheriff's office received "credible information" about alleged abuse; while Miranda's Rescue markets itself as a "no-kill" sanctuary, founder Shannon Miranda admitted to euthanizing dogs by gunshot.
Forensic veterinarians determined "many of those animals" died from gunshot wounds; investigators also recovered more than 600 dog collars and 21 canine skulls from the property.
Due to the investigation's complexity, the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office stated the evidence review will require significant time; if sufficient evidence supports animal cruelty or fraud violations, prosecutors will review the case.
Authorities scheduled a news conference for Monday to provide updates, while the remaining 47 dogs recovered will undergo necropsies off-site to assist ongoing evidence collection.