Christine De Anda, 57, operator of Rock N’ Paws in Lake Hughes, California, has been charged with 35 felonies and misdemeanors following a raid by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control on March 20, 2026. The raid, prompted by reports of animals living in poor conditions, resulted in the seizure of over 300 animals, including one dead cat, marking the largest domestic animal seizure in the agency’s history. On September 21, 2026, De Anda was formally charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty, neglect, and operating an animal facility without a license.
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Meanwhile, 55-year-old Shannon Miranda has reportedly resumed operations at Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna, although he has not faced any criminal charges following an investigation that began on June 23, 2026. This investigation aimed to locate at least 731 dogs that allegedly disappeared under his care in the prior year. Investigators discovered the remains of 138 dogs, including skeletons and skulls, prompting suspicions of widespread neglect.
The Humboldt County Planning & Building Department recently lifted a suspension on Miranda's facility's conditional use permit, allowing it to restart animal intakes and adoptions. This suspension was initially imposed due to violations including unpermitted operations and questions surrounding the euthanasia and burial of animals on-site. Miranda claimed he resumed operations two weeks prior to the permit’s restoration, though he did not clarify how the euthanasia issue was resolved.
Despite ongoing investigations, Miranda continues to accept donations for rehoming dogs, reportedly collecting over $510,000 in 2025 alone. Allegations of animal cruelty and fraud are pending against him, following a civil suit filed by Rocket Dog Rescue.
Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal has urged the public to remain patient as investigators, including local and federal agencies, continue to explore the complex case. Reports indicate that some former staff members at Miranda's Rescue observed concerning conditions, including neglect and potential euthanasia of dogs to make space.
In light of these developments, the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation has been providing care for the animals seized from De Anda's facility, many of which have significant health issues and will not be available for adoption until they are cleared by the court.