Both Friends of Oakland Animal Services and Oakland Animal Services have fully supported the ongoing investigation into Miranda’s Rescue from the beginning, providing investigators with all available records and evidence. We remain dedicated to seeking justice for the dogs we sent to Miranda’s Rescue. They had names, lives, and people who loved them. They mattered. We continue to grieve their loss.
We know many of our supporters want FOAS to pursue a civil lawsuit against Shannon Miranda. We share the desire for accountability and justice for the dogs transferred to Miranda’s Rescue.
We sought guidance from experienced animal law attorneys who have been involved with this situation since the news first broke. After reviewing FOAS’s specific circumstances, they advised us not to pursue a civil case because it would be unlikely to result in meaningful justice for the animals or significant recovery of the funds paid to Miranda’s.
We understand that this conclusion will be disappointing. It is disappointing to us as well. Although legal representation could be provided on a pro bono basis, a civil case would still involve a significant burden of proof and potentially years of litigation. It would also require substantial staff time and attention, diverting our limited organizational resources from the animals and programs that depend on us.
There would also be no assurance that any judgment could actually be collected. Even if FOAS prevailed in court, the availability of assets from which to recover a judgment is uncertain. Based on the advice we have received, the litigation would likely result in little or no financial recovery.
The criminal investigation remains ongoing. FOAS, Oakland Animal Services, and our attorneys remain in contact with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and investigators and continue to provide whatever information is requested. Any decision to bring criminal charges rests with law enforcement and prosecutors. We remain hopeful that the investigation will lead to appropriate charges and meaningful accountability.
Choosing not to file a civil lawsuit does not diminish the seriousness of what occurred or our commitment to accountability. It reflects our responsibility to use FOAS’s limited time and resources where they can do the most good for Oakland’s animals. The need facing animals at Oakland Animal Services remains urgent. In honor of the dogs we lost, we are putting our resources toward caring for animals who need help today and strengthening the work that can prevent suffering in the future. We hope you will understand why we made that choice, even if you would have chosen differently.
Additional information:
- FOAS and OAS Joint FAQ about Miranda’s Rescue, May 22, 2026
- Update Regarding Miranda’s Rescue July 16, 2026
- In tribute to the dogs we have lost…