The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation on April 26 after receiving a tip alleging felony animal abuse, cruelty, fraud and conspiracy at Miranda’s Rescue, a nonprofit shelter in Fortuna operated by Shannon Miranda. According to Sheriff William Honsal, 900 animals have been transferred to the rescue since January 2025, but investigators have been able to confirm only 116 adoptions during that period, leaving over 700 animals missing. A search warrant affidavit obtained by SFGATE states investigators believe Miranda may have “murdered these dogs” to make space for more rescues and increase financial intake. “We are thinking worst-case scenario,” Honsal said.