Palm Springs Animal Shelter Cuts Ties with Miranda's Rescue After 117 Dead Dogs Discovered

The Palm Springs Animal Shelter has officially terminated its contract with Miranda's Rescue following a devastating update from a law enforcement investigation. The announcement follows a news conference held today by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Department detailing a shocking discovery at the nonprofit animal rescue facility located in the city of Fortuna.According to officials, the investigation originally began back in May after local residents raised concerns regarding the conditions at Miranda's Rescue. Although the organization's website markets the facility as a no-kill rescue dedicated to helping neglected or distressed animals, a major development occurred after authorities executed a search warrant on June 25th. Over the course of a three-day search of the property, investigators discovered the remains of 117 dogs buried on the site. On-site X-rays subsequently revealed that many of those deceased dogs contained bullet fragments.Tragically, two of the dead dogs recovered were puppies that had been transferred directly from the Palm Springs Animal Shelter on April 1st. Palm Springs Animal Shelter Executive Director Dan Rossi expressed absolute disbelief regarding the findings, stating that shelter officials were "completely shocked and devastated." Rossi noted that their understanding was that the rescue operator would be honest and upfront about the animals, as he frequently sent over photos of successful adoptions that were taking place. Throughout their professional relationship, there were always signs that indicate things were appropriate and right.In total, the Palm Springs Animal Shelter had transferred 30 dogs to the Fortuna rescue, including the two deceased puppies. While several of those animals were successfully adopted, shelter officials are still waiting to confirm the exact whereabouts of the remaining dogs.Consequently, the Palm Springs Animal Shelter has immediately cut all ties and terminated its contract with Miranda's Rescue. Shelter officials plan to provide a deeper look into the situation during a scheduled update at 6 o'clock tonight to explain more about why the animals were originally transferred and outline the active steps the shelter is taking to find answers.Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley. For more Coachella Valley News visit NBCPalmSprings.com