In a coordinated effort, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), working alongside the Fortuna Police Department, apprehended Joseph Larue, a fugitive facing multiple serious charges across state lines. The arrest took place shortly after 1 p.m. in Fortuna, California, following a lengthy search that involved several weeks of investigative work and surveillance by local law enforcement.
Larue, who had managed to evade authorities since early October, was finally located at a residence near the intersection of Newburg and Orchard in Fortuna. Fortuna Police Chief Casey Day confirmed that officers closed in on the property, prompting Larue to attempt an escape on foot. However, the officers acted quickly, successfully apprehending him before he could flee the area.
Originally, Larue was wanted on felony animal cruelty charges stemming from an incident in Oregon that dates back to January 2024. According to HCSO, the Oregon charges are tied to an investigation that uncovered evidence of severe abuse. Animal rights activists and law enforcement agencies in Oregon had increased efforts to locate Larue as public concern around the case grew. However, it was his recent alleged actions in Humboldt County that heightened the urgency to bring him into custody.
On October 15, Larue was reportedly involved in a violent domestic dispute that escalated to a physical confrontation. During this altercation, he is believed to have sustained a gunshot wound, yet managed to escape the scene before authorities arrived. This incident brought Larue back onto law enforcement’s radar in California and led to intensified efforts to track him down. The circumstances surrounding the domestic violence incident, including the origin of the gunshot and the extent of Larue’s injuries, are still under investigation, though officials have noted that he has since received medical attention.
A press release issued by HCSO outlines the multiple charges Larue now faces, beyond the animal cruelty accusations from Oregon. These include felony domestic violence, resisting arrest, and two firearm-related charges: possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person. The charges underscore the risks Larue posed to both the community and law enforcement as he remained at large.
The Fortuna Police Department and HCSO have not yet released further details about Larue’s time in Humboldt County, his connections to the area, or any potential associates who may have assisted him during his time on the run. Authorities are continuing to investigate his movements and activities in the weeks leading up to his capture to determine whether additional charges may be warranted.
Chief Day expressed relief at Larue’s arrest, noting the combined efforts of multiple agencies in tracking down a dangerous individual and removing him from the streets. He also commended the officers involved in the arrest for their swift action, which prevented Larue from escaping once again.
As Larue’s legal process begins, he is expected to face extradition hearings that will determine whether he will be transferred back to Oregon to answer to the initial animal cruelty charges. Both the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon authorities have expressed their commitment to ensuring that Larue faces justice for his alleged actions.
This is an ongoing investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to Larue’s activities in either California or Oregon to come forward. We will continue to provide updates as this case develops and more information becomes available.
