Washington State

Office of the Attorney General

Attorney General

Bob Ferguson

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Settlement with Pasado’s Safe Haven resolves state’s concerns

EVERETT – An animal rescue organization in Snohomish County agreed to restructure its accounting practices as part of a settlement with the Washington Attorney General’s Office.

Pasado’s Safe Haven cares for abused and neglected pets and farm animals on 85 acres in Snohomish County and coordinates animal adoptions. The nonprofit organization was named after a petting-zoo donkey cruelly killed in 1992.

The Attorney General’s Office initiated the settlement with Pasado’s Safe Haven to ensure compliance with state laws that regulate organizations that solicit donations. Documents were filed today in Snohomish County Superior Court.

“We believe Pasado’s Safe Haven has good intentions and are optimistic that its leaders will make necessary changes to ensure incoming donations and expenses are properly tracked,” Assistant Attorney General Shannon Smith said.

Under the settlement, the organization agrees to maintain properly segregated accounts to ensure donations are restricted to their intended purposes, to hire an accountant to conduct regular financial audits, and to ensure all its board members and executives are trained in nonprofit governance.

It also agrees to ensure its registration as a charitable organization with the Secretary of State’s Office is current and to accurately describe the role and qualifications of employees and volunteers who may participate in disaster relief efforts.

DOCUMENTS:

Pasado's Safe Haven Complaint

Pasado's Safe Haven Consent Decree

 


Media Contact: Kristin Alexander, Media Relations Manager, 206-464-6432, kalexander@atg.wa.gov

 

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