'We Are Heartbroken' 2 RivCo Puppies Sent To Animal Rescue Found In Mass Grave

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Two of the 117 dogs found at a rescue operation in Humboldt County were initially transferred from the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, the organization announced Sunday. Farkle and Felicia, both puppies, were confirmed as victims in this case.

"We transferred those puppies believing they were being placed with a trusted rescue partner where they would have the opportunity to find loving homes. The outcome is devastating," the Palm Springs Animal Shelter shared on a Facebook post.

Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor Manuel Perez addressing the situation Monday.

"The reports coming out of northern California are unsettling and really bring to light the realities our animal services teams are facing. Our priority is to continue working with partners, such as Palm Springs Animal Shelter, to ensure a no-kill county," Perez said in a statement.

"We stand with them and support a thorough investigation to ensure accountability. I would like to reassure our residents that Riverside County Animal Services has no record of transferring animals to the rescue organization involved, and we remain committed to rigorous due diligence to help ensure the safety and well-being of every animal placed in our care," Perez added.

The shelter announced it established a partnership with Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in the Northern California city of Fortuna in the fall of 2024 and has transferred a total of 35 animals to the rescue organization.

"In memory of Felicia, Farkle and the many other animals whose lives were forever changed, we have begun a thorough review of our transfer policies, procedures and partnership practices. While there was no information available to us at the time suggesting these animals were at risk, we are committed to identifying opportunities to strengthen our safeguards and further protect the animals entrusted to our care," the PSAS statement said.

On Thursday, the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Division completed a second search warrant operation and follow-up investigation at the sanctuary.

That search warrant authorized sheriff's personnel to search the grounds and buildings associated with the sanctuary to gather evidence related to animal cruelty and fraud.

During the excavation, investigators allegedly found a total of 117 intact canine remains from two dig sites, along with an additional 21 canine skulls and hundreds of bones. Six loose microchips were found at another dig site near where the intact animals were discovered.

Read Also: Feds Unearth Bullet-Riddled Dog Corpses, 600 Collars Near Mass Graves

Based on examinations, investigators preliminarily determined the cause of death for many of the dogs was gunshot wounds.

"This investigation is just getting started. There is a tremendous amount of data to process, witnesses to interview and evidence to examine. The Major Crimes Division is laser-focused on this case and will continue working with our state and federal partners to examine every lead. We are grateful for the investigative teams from the county, state and federal government.

"We are also grateful to the private forensic veterinarians who performed the necropsies on-site. The determination all of these professionals showed while working through this horrific scene is something we will not forget," said Humboldt County Sheriff William F. Honsal.

"Like so many of you, we are heartbroken by the devastating reports," a spokesperson for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter wrote. "Our hearts are with every animal affected, every family seeking answers, and every member of the animal welfare community impacted by this tragedy"

Related:

• Shelters Cut Ties With 'No-Kill' CA Rescue Accused Of Slaying And Dumping Dogs In Mass Grave
• 700 Dogs Still Missing As FBI, Deputies Excavate Suspected Graves In Growing Humboldt County Investigation