Humane Society Faces Leadership Shake-Up Amidst Animal Transfer Controversy

The CEO of the Humane Society of Southern Arizona (HSSAZ), Steve Farley, has been fired and the chief programs officer, Christian Gonzalez, had his resignation accepted after more than 250 small animals went missing following a transfer from the San Diego Humane Society. The animals were sent to a group associated with a reptile farm in Maricopa County, and their fates are still unknown. The HSSAZ board of directors will continue their investigation and will make a public report. The San Diego Humane Society is demanding accountability and definitive proof about the missing animals. Farley denies involvement in the transportation of the animals and claims misinformation has been circulating. The controversy has affected donations to the HSSAZ, and efforts are being made to regain community trust.