A search at an animal rescue center in Fortuna, California, uncovered the remains of 117 dogs. The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office described the Thursday operation at Miranda's Rescue as a "horrific scene."
Sheriff William Honsal announced that under a search warrant, they discovered "117 dog remains, skulls, hundreds of bones, and six loose microchips" at various excavation sites on the property. Many of the dog bodies were in different stages of decomposition.
X-ray results revealed numerous dogs had bullet fragments in their bodies. A site believed to be where dogs were killed was identified in a barn on the property. More than 600 dog collars were collected from the same area.
The investigation was launched following allegations of animal abuse and fraud. No charges have been filed yet. The sheriff's office stated, "If sufficient evidence of animal abuse, fraud, or other violations of law is found, the case will be forwarded to the district attorney."
The rescue center's founder, Shannon Miranda, said in a statement on her website, "Accusations made without a full understanding of the circumstances could damage both my reputation and the future of an organization that has served this community for decades."
The investigation is ongoing.