Between May 2024 and August 2025, Utah authorities responded to repeated complaints about conditions at Outreach Pawsabilities, an animal rescue based in Herriman and run by founder Kimberely Mikesell. What they found was horrifying: over 100 dogs crammed into kennels, many without food, water, or space. Feces-coated cages, nonstop barking, and a stench so strong officers described it in official reports—all allegedly happening in the care of someone claiming to “rescue” animals.

Kimberely Mikesell has now been charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty, obstruction of justice, and even forgery, after allegedly falsifying medical records and refusing to cooperate with investigations. Some dogs were found suffering from untreated infections and flea infestations. One was reportedly stored in a storage unit while showing signs of respiratory distress. Veterinary staff diagnosed contagious illnesses and recommended euthanasia in some cases—care Mikesell allegedly refused to provide.

This is not rescue. This is cruelty hiding behind a nonprofit mission.

No one is above the law when it comes to the treatment of animals, especially not someone operating an animal shelter. Utah must send a clear message: if you abuse animals while claiming to protect them, you will be held fully accountable.

We are calling on the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office and Salt Lake County Animal Services to ensure this case is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We also demand that Outreach Pawsabilities be shut down pending the resolution of this case and barred from operating if found guilty.

Sign to stand with the animals who cannot speak for themselves—and to ensure that rescue really means rescue.