JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. 28 Oct. 2024 – Oregon State Police detectives are asking for witnesses to a non-lethal shooting to come forward with any video of the incident.
On Oct. 26, 2024, at about 2:00 a.m., police responded to a report of shots fired at a large party in rural Josephine County. An adult male was taken to a local hospital by private vehicle from the party and was treated for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the abdomen.
Many of the party attendees were juvenile and intoxicated. However, all the individuals involved in the altercation that led to the shooting have been identified and are over 18 years of age. Multiple party attendees fled from the scene, resulting in two rollover traffic crashes with minor injuries.
Investigators do not believe there are any public safety threats stemming from this incident.
Investigators believe multiple cell phone videos of the incident exist and are asking witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP’s Southern Command Center at 800-442-2068 or call OSP (677) from a mobile device. Please reference case number # SP24-350006.
The investigation is ongoing and OSP is not releasing the names of the parties involved at this time.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
Spokane, Washington – United States Attorney, Vanessa Waldref announced Assistant United Attorney (AUSA) Dan Fruchter received the 2024 “Honest Abe Integrity in Government” award from the Taxpayers Against Fraud Coalition.
This award recognizes dedication to public service and a commitment to False Claims Act enforcement and the whistleblowers who make these cases possible. When announcing the award, the TAF Coalition called AUSA Fruchter, “a master tradesman of False Claims Act enforcement.”
AUSA Fruchter is the Chief of the Fraud & White-Collar Crime Unit for the Eastern District of Washington. Throughout his career, he has led the prosecution of hundreds of fraud cases, spanning a wide range of subjects including procurement fraud, health care fraud, and pandemic relief fraud. AUSA Fruchter is a life-long public servant and passionate advocate for whistleblowers.
Under his leadership, the Eastern District of Washington has expanded its health care fraud practice, focusing its efforts on patient safety and justice. Last year, as part of a $29 Million settlement with Lincare Holding, Inc to address claims that Lincare submitted to Medicare and Medicare Advantage, in what is believed to be a first-of-a-kind False Claims Act settlement, Lincare also agreed to identify and repay Medicare beneficiaries who were overcharged co-pays. Pursuant to this provision, as of September 2024, Lincare has refunded payments to 4,917 patients for a total of $976,137.
AUSA Fruchter also spearheaded the Eastern District of Washington’s innovative and nationally-recognized COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, which was launched in Spring 2022. The Strike Force brings together 15 federal agencies with a team of prosecutors to quickly respond to investigative leads. Since it was launched, the Strike Force has charged 35 defendants, secured 20 criminal convictions, 4 civil settlements, and recovered more than $30 million in settlements, seizures, and restitution judgments.
One qui tam filed by a whistleblower tenant resulted in a settlement of over $300,000 with All Star Property Management to resolve claims that they falsely and fraudulently claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars in rent assistance intended to benefit struggling renters during the COVD-19 pandemic. The legal aid organization that brought the case, Northwest Justice Project, produced a short video about the case featuring the whistleblower and AUSA Fruchter.
“No matter the shape or scope of the scheme, Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter is tireless in his pursuit to fight for the underdog and hold fraudsters accountable,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “AUSA Fruchter has cemented the Eastern District of Washington as a district of choice for whistleblowers and relator’s counsel due to his strategic and tenacious approach to fighting fraud and white-collar crime. This award is a well-deserved honor.”
PORTLAND, Ore.—United States Attorney Natalie Wight announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Ethan Knight will lead the efforts of this office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.
AUSA Ethan Knight, Cyber and National Security Unit Chief, has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of Oregon, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Department of Justice Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
“The Department of Justice and U.S. Attorney’s Office will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process,” said Natalie Wight, United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.
The Justice Department has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation on Election Day, threats of violence directed at election officials and workers, and election fraud. The department will address these violations wherever they occur. The department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911.
The FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. To report allegations, contact 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or www.tips.fbi.gov.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
If you have questions about the Justice Department’s Election Day Program in Oregon or need assistance directing election-related complaints to the proper authorities, District Election Officer Knight can be reached by calling (503) 727-1000.
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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When & Where: Monday, Nov. 4
Why: Great photo/video opportunity showing partnership between WSU Tri-Cities College of Education and local schools to provide meaningful early practicum experiences for teacher candidates. The Laboratory School partnership is unique because it allows teacher candidates to observe in multiple classrooms and then volunteer in multiple classrooms to apply teaching techniques, rather than a single classroom.
Who: In attendance will be WSU Tri-Cities leadership, Pasco School District Superintendent Michelle Whitney, Franklin STEM Principal Jennifer Melendrez, Maya Angelou Elementary Principal Diana Cissne and WSU Tri-Cities teacher candidates.
What: Maya Angelou Elementary and Franklin STEM Elementary WSU Tri-Cities Teaching Laboratory School Dedications
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Leslie Streeter, WSU Tri-Cities Director of Marketing and Communications, (509) 372-7333 or leslie.streeter@wsu.edu
Anna Tensmeyer, Director of Public Affairs, Pasco School District (509) 546-2807 or atensmeyer@psd1.org
The FBI is coordinating with federal, state and local partners to actively investigate the two incidents in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, in the early morning hours of Monday, October 28th to determine who is responsible.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the nearest FBI office, provide information through tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324).
Salem, Ore.—After a record-breaking year, all Oregon Department of Forestry districts have terminated fire restrictions, marking the end of the 2024 Oregon fire season declaration. With over 1.9 million acres burned across the state, firefighters and resources experienced extreme strain.
“This season proved that wildfire in Oregon is not just one agency’s issue but effects ALL Oregonians from government agencies to private landowners to Oregon residents.” Kyle Williams, ODF Deputy Director of Fire Protection, said, “This is our reality, and we need to adjust in response to it.”
Throughout May and June, the state experienced an average, even below average, season. However, early July brought the beginning of peak season with a heat wave followed by several lightning and wind events that primarily affected Central and Eastern Oregon.
Meteorological events combined with lightning-and human-caused fire brought immense strain on Oregon’s in-state resources. In response, the department leaned heavily into its interstate relationships. Firefighters and resources from about 20 states and Canada were brought to Oregon through state-to-state mutual aid agreements and the Northwest Compact.
“The outpouring of support from out of state has been amazing to say the least,” Chris Cline, ODF Protection Division Chief, said. “It truly goes to show that fire is a family, no matter where you are.”
Year to date, there have been 1,003 fires on ODF-protected lands resulting in 314,181 acres burned. ODF Type 1 Incident Management Teams (IMT) have been mobilized 11 times to wildfires this year. The assignments were to the following incidents:
An ODF team was also deployed earlier in the year to assist Lane County and Springfield in their ice storm response. The department also mobilized a Complex IMT comprised of North Carolina and Florida firefighters through state-to-state mutual aid agreements. Statewide, regardless of jurisdiction, there have been 1,956 fires that have burned 1,937,512 acres.
Due to the agency’s aggressive approach to initial attack to preserve natural resources, protect communities, and increase firefighter safety, many fire starts that happened this year were never heard about. Overall, the department put out 93 percent of fires on ODF-protected land at 10 acres or fewer this year.
Fighting alongside ODF and other wildland firefighters this season were members of Rangeland Fire Protection Associations. Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPAs) are independent, non-profit, volunteer fire organizations that provide local fire protection in rural Oregon, usually in areas outside of local fire district protection.
There are 28 RFPAs that protect rangeland and are an integral part of Oregon’s complete and coordinated system. This season, RFPAs were some of the first resources to respond and begin work on a fire while more resources were on their way. They also provided incident management teams and fire managers with information on the area and the land that gave in-depth situational awareness and influenced operations. ODF supports the associations through administrative guidance, insurance reimbursement, fire suppression training and facilitating access to federal grants and surplus firefighting equipment.
The start and end of fire season restrictions and regulations are set by each forest protection district based on the conditions in their area including drought, climatic forecasts, and seasonal trends. These restrictions and regulations are on activities prone to start wildfires, such as debris burning and certain equipment use, and are intended as preventative measures during times with elevated wildfire risks. The arrival of steady soaking rain, coupled with cooler temperatures and shorter days, usually triggers the closure of fire season. The end of fire season removes ODF imposed fire restrictions on ODF-protected lands. However, many structural fire departments in Oregon still require a permit for debris burning, and slash burning requires a permit year-round, so check with your local fire department or ODF office before starting a burn.
As Oregon transitions out of fire season, ODF districts across the state are shifting their attention to wildfire prevention, fuels reduction, mitigation and planning efforts.
For more tips on how to keep yourself, your loved ones and your property safe from wildfire at any time of year, visit ODF’s Fire Prevention website or Keep Oregon Green’s website.
ODF protects over 16 million acres of private, county, state and federal forest and grazing lands in Oregon.
SALEM, Ore. — The Adaptive Management Program Committee will meet at noon on Monday, Nov. 4 in the Clatsop Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.
The committee’s agenda includes:
The meeting is open to the public to attend in person and online via Zoom. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ogram@odf.oregon.gov">adaptivemanagementprogram@odf.oregon.gov.
The 13-member committee The Adaptive Management Program Committee helps determine if forest practices are meeting their goals to protect natural resources through a science-based and transparent process. The committee sets the research agenda that the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) implements. View more information on the AMPC webpage.
College Place, WA — College Place Public Schools (CPPS) is excited to announce the upcoming addition of Wi-Fi internet connectivity to its entire fleet of 13 school buses, a move that will significantly enhance the learning experience for students on the go. This initiative aims to utilize the long travel times of students, particularly student-athletes, by transforming bus rides into productive opportunities for academic and extracurricular engagement. The project is expected to be completed over the upcoming extended Veterans Day weekend.
“Our students often travel over two hours each way to attend competitions, far more than the average one-hour journey faced by other schools in our conference,” said Kenneth James, Athletic Director in College Place Public Schools. “Providing internet on these buses levels the playing field for our kids by allowing them to maximize their time, access educational resources, and stay connected even while on the road.”
Extending the Classroom to the Commute
The addition of Wi-Fi on buses means students can now make use of their morning and afternoon commutes to get a head start on their schoolwork or catch up on assignments before they reach home. This is especially beneficial for those students who may not have reliable internet access at home. By turning travel time into study time, CPPS is helping to bridge the digital divide that affects so many students in rural communities.
“We know that some of our students face challenges when it comes to internet connectivity once they leave school,” said Superintendent Jim Fry. “By equipping our buses with internet, we’re giving all students, regardless of their circumstances at home, the opportunity to complete homework, research assignments, or engage in online learning tools during their commutes.”
Technical Specifications and Student Benefits
Each bus in the CPPS fleet is now equipped with advanced Wi-Fi technology that offers secure, high-speed internet access for both students and staff. The system integrates with the district’s existing IT infrastructure to ensure a seamless connection and maintain the same strict content filters that govern on-campus use. This means that students can browse, study, and collaborate in a safe online environment while remaining compliant with the district’s acceptable use policies.
Research has consistently shown that providing internet on school buses can have a positive impact on student behavior and academic performance. Studies indicate that Wi-Fi-equipped buses tend to have fewer disciplinary incidents and allow students to utilize their travel time more efficiently. According to findings published by the American Educational Research Association, students who have access to digital learning tools during their commute are more likely to engage in productive activities, such as completing homework assignments or reviewing class materials, which ultimately contributes to improved academic outcomes.
More Than Just a Convenience
In addition to academic benefits, the new technology provides significant support for CPPS staff. Coaches and educators accompanying students on these trips can use the internet access to handle administrative tasks, complete data reports, and prepare strategies, maximizing their own productivity during travel time. The district is committed to using this technology to enhance both student learning and staff efficiency.
“Our priority has always been to create the best possible learning environment for our students, regardless of where they are. This new capability allows us to turn travel time into an extension of the classroom, giving students the tools they need to succeed both in academics and extracurricular activities,” added Superintendent Fry
Addressing the Unique Needs of Our Community
College Place’s remote location presents unique challenges for its student-athletes and traveling students. While most of the schools in the conference have travel times of under an hour, CPPS students often spend up to four hours on the road for round-trip journeys. This long commute has historically put College Place students at a disadvantage in terms of time available for studying and preparation. The addition of internet access on buses aims to bridge this gap, giving CPPS students the same opportunities as their peers, despite their geographical location.
Also, due to is rural nature, some of CPPS’ bus routes are as long as an hour to and from school daily. The addition of this tool will allow students to utilize the time for learning tasks as they need.
Looking Forward
College Place Public Schools continues to explore innovative ways to enhance educational experiences and ensure that all students have the resources they need to succeed. This latest addition to our transportation fleet reflects the district’s commitment to leveraging technology to create equitable learning opportunities for every student, no matter where they are.
Kennewick, WA., October 17, 2024
Were you affected by the recent Lamb Weston facility closure in Connell, WA? Join us for an information session to learn more about the resources available to you. We help workers transition between jobs and are here to help, whether it is returning to work quickly or pursuing a new career.
Some of the resources we offer include:
We are offering 5 sessions. Please attend the one that works best for you. Family members are welcome!
When: Monday, October 28, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spanish
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM English
Where: Connell High School Auditorium
1100 W Clark Rd, Connell, WA 99326
When: Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Time: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM English
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spanish
Where: Columbia Basin College, CTE Building, Room 203
2600 N 20th Ave, Pasco, WA 99301
When: Thursday, October 31, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spanish
Where: Teams
Meeting ID: 273 187 059 659
Passcode: n9UvcB
Questions about the event?
Contact Selma Velagic at 509-734-5897
Kiona - Benton City School Board scheduled a special meeting on 10/28/24 at 6:00 pm in the board room. The special meeting is called for the purpose of interviewing applicants for the open school board positions. The regular scheduled board meeting will follow at 6:30 pm in the board room.
Yakima, Washington – On October 24, 2024, United States District Judge James L. Robart sentenced Leo John Yallup, age 38, of Wapato, Washington, to 10 years in federal prison for assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon. Judge Robart also imposed 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, on March 2, 2023, four officers with a U.S. Marshals Service task force traveled to a house at 1161 Donald Wapato Road, in Wapato, Washington, to arrest Yallup on an outstanding warrant.
When Yallup saw the officers pull into his driveway, he took off running behind the house, pursued by the officers. At the back of the property, Yallup drew a firearm and pointed it at the officers. One of the officers fired his service weapon, hitting Yallup in the head, causing him to fall to the ground.
Officers handcuffed Yallup and began to render medical aid. During this process, officers turned Yallup on his back. As officers turned him over, they saw Yallup had been lying on the weapon he pointed at officers. The gun was loaded and had a live round in the chamber. Officers also discovered Yallup was armed with a second weapon in a shoulder holster.
“Mr. Yallup attempted to escape arrest, and in the process, pointed a loaded gun at federal officers, putting their lives, and the lives of others, at great risk,” stated Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. “I am grateful for the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line everyday to keep our communities safe and strong. My office will continue to hold offenders accountable to who threaten the safety of those who protect and serve the people of Eastern Washington.”
“A law enforcement officer does not want to shoot someone.” said Kelly M. Smith, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “However, Mr. Yallup left no other option when he drew his weapon and pointed it at officers. Fortunately, he lived and no officers were hurt. This case is a reminder of the personal sacrifice our law enforcement officers make on a daily basis.”
Craig Thayer, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Washington commented, “Deputy U. S. Marshals in the Eastern District of Washington, and throughout the nation, serve thousands of federal, state, and local arrest warrants for the most violent offenders in the criminal justice system. They face extraordinary dangers in order to protect our communities while professionally, safely, and efficiently bringing these wanted persons before a court of law. When a wanted person, like Leo John Yallup, draws a firearm, and points it at law enforcement officers, those officers will apply necessary force to stop the threat. It should be noted that these Deputies immediately rendered aid to Yallup once his deadly threat was stopped. With his sentence today, he now faces the consequences of his violent behaviors. The fugitive apprehension mission is one of the primary responsibilities of the United States Marshals Service.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Courtney R. Pratten and Todd M. Swensen.
U.S. Attorney Waldref recorded a video statement that can be found here.
CORRECTION: This version corrects a type in the press release.
October 25, 2024
Media Contact: Amber Shoebridge, er.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov">amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov, 503-931-9586
Salem, Ore. – After four overlapping surveys and more than 12 months, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has ruled Oregon State Hospital (OSH) has made significant patient safety and quality improvements and is now in substantial compliance, no longer slated to lose CMS certification.
“The hospital is a foundational component of our behavioral health continuum of care. And our hospital staff care for patients suffering from the highest acuity, patients who are often forgotten or misunderstood by the rest of society,” said Sejal Hathi, M.D., MBA, director of Oregon Health Authority. "While there is still much work to do, this milestone is a testament to the ongoing commitment of our hospital staff to fostering and ensuring a safe and therapeutic setting where all patients can thrive.”
Representatives of CMS resurveyed OSH the week of Oct. 7 to evaluate the hospital’s implementation of Plans of Correction related to four separate investigations. Based on their findings, CMS issued a letter rescinding its termination action and returning the hospital back into its normal cycle of surveys.
“OSH remains committed to ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment for our patients, and we’ve already started work to address continuity in our implementation,” said Sara Walker, M.D., OSH interim superintendent and chief medical officer. “OSH staff care deeply about our patients and each other, and they’ve been instrumental in making effective changes across the hospital.”
The hospital will continue to implement and audit its prior plans of correction to ensure progress, as well as to address all standard-level CMS deficiencies, which do not require plans of correction, in its commitment to ongoing improvement. OSH has contracted with The Chartis Group, a leading health care regulatory advisory firm, to help the hospital develop and implement strategies to ensure continued quality improvement.
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Richland, WA – The City of Richland is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all our community members. Recently, Wye Park and Columbia Park West in Richland have experienced a significant increase in incidents of vandalism, damage to public facilities, and illegal activities. These issues raise concerns regarding public health and safety.
“We take the stewardship of our parks seriously,” said Joe Schiessl, Deputy City Manager, “and we are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all residents. Unfortunately, the recent actions have made it imperative to take immediate action.
These activities have not only harmed publicly owned property but have also negatively impacted the natural resources managed by the Army Corp of Engineers”.
As recent activities have escalated, the City of Richland is announcing a temporary closure of portions of Wye Park and Columbia Park West, effective immediately. This closure will temporarily reduce the pressure on the parks and natural resources, ensuring the City has time to perform necessary maintenance and restore the integrity of this community resource.
The City’s commitment to community wellbeing includes those experiencing homelessness. The City and their partners understand that many individuals wish to help those in need, and we appreciate the compassion shown by community members. However, unpermitted activities that are not coordinated with the county, City or the local health district can lead to unintended consequences. Our decision to close parts of the parks is not made lightly, as we prioritize the safety and well-being of all park users and the preservation of our natural resources.
“Our parks are meant to be welcoming spaces for everyone, and we are committed to addressing the needs of our community compassionately,” said Joe Schiessl. “This closure is a necessary step to protect the park environment and ensure the safety of all visitors.”
The City recognizes the vital role that many community organizations play in supporting those in need. We encourage local partners to gather to discuss how we can all work together to continue providing essential services to those who rely on them. Our staff are here to listen and collaborate in a way that respects the dignity of all individuals.
Further updates will be shared at www.ci.richland.wa.us.
WHAT HAPPENED
On September 9, 2024, Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) discovered that a staff member mistakenly emailed an internal spreadsheet to two individuals wishing to visit one of its institutions. This spreadsheet included the personal information of 861 individuals on whom ODOC had completed background checks. This mis-mailing was on August 28 and 29.
Once ODOC learned of the error, immediate action was taken. ODOC contacted the two email recipients and coordinated an appropriate response with its State-side information security resources. It was confirmed the emails and their attachments were fully deleted from both recipients’ email and from State mail systems on September 16, 2024.
WHAT INFORMATION WAS INVOLVED
The protected information inadvertently shared is the combination of each individual’s name, and drivers’ license or state identification number. This is “personal information” protected under the Oregon Consumer Information Protection Act (OCIPA), ORS 646A.600 et seq. Other information relating to background checks (such as approval or denial and reason) was also summarized in the spreadsheet, as was dates of birth and FBI Numbers. No Social Security numbers or financial information was in the spreadsheet.
WHAT ODOC IS DOING
ODOC takes this event very seriously. ODOC reported the incident to the Oregon State Police and to the State’s Cyber Security Services office; and confirmed the information was deleted from State mail systems and recipients’ emails. Additionally, ODOC has been working with facility staff and the State’s Cyber Security Services office to take specific steps to limit the likelihood of future errors of this kind. It is also evaluating additional measures to further enhance protocols for the protection of visitors’ personal information.
Again, this exposure was due to error and was not the result of a cyberattack. It does not appear individuals’ information is at risk. However, to assist in protecting those affected against identity theft, ODOC is making 12 months of identity theft resolution services available at no cost.
The Oregon Department of Corrections is committed to protecting individuals' information. Immediate action was taken to investigate and address the vulnerabilities of this breach, and to implement corrective actions. DOC reaffirms its commitment and dedication to the safety and security of individuals’ information.
SALEM, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD)’s e-bike rule advisory committee will hold three additional meetings to discuss possible changes to electric-assisted bicycle rules on state park properties and the ocean shore.
The committee held its first meeting Oct. 17. Once the committee makes suggestions about possible changes, OPRD staff can draft proposed rule changes based on recommendations. If rule changes are anticipated, a draft of the proposed rule will be open for public comment in early 2025.
The committee will meet online on the following days:
These meetings are open to the public and will be livestreamed and recorded. They can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkqL6iVPBrfCTO27cNmCTwg.
Committee members, appointed by OPRD, include individuals from around the state who enjoy electric assisted bicycles for recreation and others who enjoy other forms of recreation in state parks and the ocean shore. The committee also includes individuals from other agencies, natural resource specialists, law enforcement, transportation specialists, non-profit organizations and business owners.
More information about this rulemaking is available on the OPRD website: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2024-EBikes.aspx.
Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Jo Niehaus at least three days in advance of a meeting at jo.niehaus@oprd.oregon.gov.
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Salem, Ore. – A store employee is facing charges after they were caught stealing a winning lottery ticket as part of a Retail Integrity Check operation conducted by Oregon State Police (OSP) and Oregon Lottery.
On Thursday, September 19, 2024, detectives from OSP’s Lottery security section presented a winning ticket to an employee at the Short Stop located at 1709 Gekeler Lane in La Grande. The employee scanned the tickets presented by the detective and advised there were no winners, keeping the ticket worth $25,000. Following the check, detectives had the ticket placed on “hold” by Oregon Lottery staff.
On September 26, 2024, the clerk mailed in the winning Lottery ticket in an attempt to redeem the $25,000 prize. Along with the winning ticket, the clerk also mailed in the Lottery Winner Claim Form and signed the declaration. After interviewing the clerk, OSP Lottery detectives cited the individual for Aggravated Theft 1 and Computer Crime. Additional charges of Theft by Deception and Forgery in the First Degree are being recommended to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
The business has been an Oregon Lottery retailer since 2005 and does not have a history of compliance issues.
“While it is rare to see an individual be dishonest at one of our retailers, we have a responsibility to ensure our games are played with fairness and integrity,” said Justin Hedlund, Oregon Lottery’s assistant director of security. “These checks are one way we accomplish that.”
Undercover checks are done routinely by OSP at Oregon Lottery retailers throughout the year, with more than 170 being conducted since 2020. OSP detectives assigned to Oregon Lottery help support the agency by ensuring fairness, integrity, security and honesty in the operation of the Lottery. The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize.
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $15.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery, visit www.oregonlottery.org.
Richland – Kick-off the holiday season in John Dam Plaza and the Richland Parkway this Saturday for Richland’s Fall Carnival! Attendees can enjoy the festivities from 2-4 p.m. Dress the family in your favorite Halloween costumes and enjoy a costume contest (contest begins at 3:30 p.m.) Activities also include a hayride through the Parkway, DJ music, and food vendors. Trick-or-treat the Parkway with 16 participating businesses. Also, kids can take home a free small pumpkin (while supplies last).
Residents and attendees are encouraged to note the road closures for this event. Knight Street will be closed between George Washington Way and Jadwin Ave. In addition, the Parkway parking lot will be closed from Lee to Knight Street to accommodate the hayrides and trick-or-treaters. Closures are expected from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
This is a free family event. Registration is not required. Food vendors are available for purchase. Join us for this fun fall event!
More information can be found at www.richlandparksandrec.com.
PORTLAND, Ore.—17 people are facing federal charges for conspiring to defraud the United States of more than $2.4 million in fraudulent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) purchases, announced the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.
A coordinated, multi-agency law enforcement operation was conducted Tuesday to dismantle the interstate fraud organization that used skimming devices and stolen Electric Benefits Transfer (EBT) accounts to purchase SNAP-eligible products for resale on the black market.
“This group targeted a program that ensures access to healthy and affordable groceries for low-income and food insecure individuals and families,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “We thank all our partners for their commitment to protecting the integrity of vital public programs like SNAP.”
“The USDA OIG is working relentlessly with our law enforcement partners to dismantle organized skimming operations targeted at stealing EBT card information from victims relying on such benefits to feed their families. These conspirators used skimmed accounts to fraudulently purchase retail goods such as infant formula and energy drinks, and later resold the stolen goods for illicit gain. We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, Homeland Security Investigations, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon Department of Justice, and Orange County District Attorney’s Office for our joint effort in pursuing and holding these conspirators accountable for defrauding American families and the Federal Government,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Shawn Dionida, U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA OIG).
“This kind of fraud cheats a system that is designed to help families and children who need assistance the most,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Every dollar stolen is a dollar that could have fed a child in need. I’m appreciative of our partnerships with federal and local law enforcement, as it is through investigations like this that we will be able to protect resources for those that rely on them, while making sure those who commit these abuses are held accountable.”
“Our role in this case started with the initiative and extensive follow-up by one of our detectives,” said Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day. “He then reached out to our federal partners, and as the investigation grew, more resources were brought in to assist. It soon became very apparent how many people were criminally involved and the wide scope of this investigation. This indictment ultimately was the result of an exhaustive amount of investigative work by our detective and federal authorities and I commend everyone involved for their dedication to this important case.”
The following individuals have been arrested and charged with conspiring to defraud the United States, for their roles in the fraud organization:
Ramirez Dumitru, 25; Giovanni Spirea, 28; Santa-Madalina Costache, 25; Florin Mareata, 25; Anita Vaduva, 36; Ion Paul Miclescu, 19; Nicolas Barbosu, 25; Alberto Tomescu, 27; Oana Aura Cristina Caldararu, 23; Roberta Elena Sardaru, 27; Salvis Foro Dunca, 26; Ana Patricia Escalante, 57; Jessica Gonzalez, 27; Edwin Lionel Santizo-Ralon, 54; Cristina Yesenia Escalante, 33; Edgar Basilio Hernandez, 33; and Marta Hernandez de Estrada, 53.
According to court documents, from August 2023 to October 2024, Ramirez Dumitru and his co-conspirators are alleged to have possessed skimming devices and stolen EBT accounts to illegally purchase items with stolen SNAP benefits. Dumitru shared information with other members of the organization who, along with him, used the stolen EBT accounts to purchase large quantities of infant formula, energy drinks, and other SNAP-eligible nonperishable food items from grocery stores in Oregon, Washington, and California, and through websites associated with grocery stores offering curb-side pickup.
Over the course of the conspiracy, the group purchased more than 120,000 pounds of goods and stored them at residential properties and storage units in Oregon and Washington until they were packaged and transported to California in private vehicles or via commercial carriers. The fraudulent goods, obtained with more than $2.4 million in stolen SNAP benefits, were then sold on the black market.
All seventeen members of the organization were arrested on Tuesday without incident and made their initial appearances in federal court this week before U.S. Magistrate Judges in Oregon, Washington and California. All have been arraigned and are pending a trial in the District of Oregon.
The case was investigated by USDA OIG, HSI, U.S. Marshals Service, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon Department of Justice, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Vancouver Police Department, San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, and the Redmond, Washington Police Department Financial Fraud and Identification Theft Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Geoffrey A. Barrow and Nicholas D. Meyers, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Washington and Central District of California.
An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Kennewick, WA., October 17, 2024
Were you affected by the recent Lamb Weston facility closure in Connell, WA? Join us for an information session to learn more about the resources available to you. We help workers transition between jobs and are here to help, whether it is returning to work quickly or pursuing a new career.
Some of the resources we offer include:
We are offering 5 sessions. Please attend the one that works best for you. Family members are welcome!
When: Monday, October 28, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spanish
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM English
Where: Connell High School Auditorium
1100 W Clark Rd, Connell, WA 99326
When: Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Time: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM English
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spanish
Where: Columbia Basin College, CTE Building, Room 203
2600 N 20th Ave, Pasco, WA 99301
When: Thursday, October 31, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Spanish
Where: Teams
Meeting ID: 273 187 059 659
Passcode: n9UvcB
Questions about the event?
Contact Selma Velagic at 509-734-5897
Richland, Washington - On September 19, 2024, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Zhangbo Liang, age 24 and Linda You, age 20, with ten criminal counts for fraud as well as trafficking and transporting stolen and counterfeit items. Liang made his first appearance in federal court in the Western District of Washington on September 30, 2024. You made her first appearance in federal court in the Eastern District of Washington on October 24, 2024.
The indictment alleges beginning no later than January of 2024, Liang and You were involved in a scheme where they would purchase authentic iPads from Target stores in the Eastern District of Washington and elsewhere, remove them from their boxes, place counterfeit iPads in the boxes, then reseal the boxes. Liang and You would then return the counterfeit iPads and receive a refund on a Target gift card. Liang and You would use the gift cards to allegedly purchase additional items from Target, including more iPads they would replace with counterfeit goods for subsequent returns.
According to the indictment, between January 2024 and June 2024, Liang and You returned at least 140 iPads to Target stores and fraudulently obtained a net refund amount of at least $163,000.
“Fraudulent schemes that involve stolen and counterfeit items harm businesses and lead to increased prices for everyone. Our fraud prosecutors, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively target fraudsters who attempt to scam businesses and individuals to line their own pockets,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref.
The case was referred for federal investigation by the Washington Attorney General’s Office Organized Retail Crime Task Force and the Skagit County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, highlighting the important and successful partnership between federal and state law enforcement agencies to address organized retail crimes.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy J. Kelley.
U.S. Attorney Waldref released a video statement that can be viewed here.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
4:24-cr-06024-SAB
Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today Ryan Hugh Milliken and his company, Hardaway Solutions, LLC (Hardaway), pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Violate the Clean Air Act. Milliken is scheduled to be sentenced on January 22, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., in Spokane, Washington.
Under the Clean Air Act, diesel trucks are required to maintain systems and components that limit harmful emissions of dangerous pollutants such as diesel particulates. Exposure to diesel exhaust can lead to serious health conditions like asthma and respiratory illnesses and can worsen existing heart and lung disease, especially in children and the elderly. Heavy-duty diesel trucks are also required under the Clean Air Act to maintain an onboard-diagnostic system which monitors the functionality of the hardware emissions control components. In order to ensure that the required emissions control systems are functioning properly, if the system detects that an emissions control component is not working, or has been removed, it will ultimately put the truck into what is known as “limp mode,” which limits the top speed to as low as 5 miles per hour.
Based on the plea agreement accepted by the court and information disclosed during court proceedings, between August 2017 and November 2023, Milliken and Hardway created and sold illegal “delete tune” files designed to disable and defeat required emissions controls and monitoring systems. According to the Plea Agreement and information disclosed during court proceedings, Milliken and Hardway created and sold these “delete tune” files for specific customers and vehicles and their specifications, including for numerous Spokane-based trucking companies and their owner, Pavel Ivanovich Turlak, who is also charged in the Indictment that names Milliken and Hardway.
“Mr. Milliken had an illegal business built around defeating important safeguards regulating the amount of emissions from diesel engines,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “These safeguards are critical to protecting public health and a safe environment. I am grateful to investigators with the Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division, technical experts with EPA’s National Enforcement Investigations Center, and prosecutors in my office who work to achieve environmental justice and make Eastern Washington a clean, safe place to live and work.”
This case was investigated by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from EPA’s National Enforcement Investigations Center, the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the Spokane Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter and Jacob E. Brooks are prosecuting the case.
While Ryan Milliken and Hardway have pled guilty and those pleas have been accepted by the court, the indictment as to Pavel Turlak is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
2:24-cr-00057-TOR
Outdoor debris burning will open at sunrise on Monday, October 28 for areas outside the City of Bend within the boundaries of Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2. Debris burning is not allowed throughout the year within the city limits of Bend as per city ordinance.
Burning can be shut down on a daily based on current and projected weather conditions that day. Please call our burn information line at 541-322-6335 everyday before burning for the most current conditions and whether burning is open or closed that day.
A reminder, debris burning regulations may vary between governmental jurisdictions within the Central Oregon area. Please contact your local fire agency for specific requirements and restrictions.
Campfires, recreational fires, warming fires and cooking fires may be permitted in areas where debris burning is prohibited. These types of fires are allowed in the city limits of Bend, typically year round, as long as the burn regulations and restrictions are followed. Contact your local fire agency for the burning regulations in your area. Burning regulations for the City of Bend and Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2 may be picked up at the nearest fire station or by printing them from the City of Bend web site at www.bendoregon.gov/burninginfo
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Wilsonville, Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for laundering millions of dollars in drug proceeds as the chief money launderer for a drug trafficking organization operating in the Pacific Northwest and California.
Jacqueline Paola Rodriguez Barrientos, 44, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.
“We thank the coordinated efforts of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners actively combatting these drug trafficking organizations and the damage they inflict on our communities,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
“While people like Ms. Rodriguez Barrientos conceal the profits of drug enterprises, the losses fall on far too many Americans and their families,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Seattle Field Office. “We will continue doing our part to expose the finances of criminal organizations.”
According to court documents, beginning in fall 2021, special agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Portland began investigating a drug trafficking organization suspected of transporting counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and heroin from California into Oregon and Washington State for distribution.
A parallel financial investigation led by IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI) revealed that Barrientos laundered money generated by the drug trafficking organization through the Mazatlán Beauty Salon in Tualatin, Oregon and by buying real estate that she converted into income-generating rentals. The real estate purchases were made with cashier’s checks funded by large cash deposits. Currency Transaction Reports generated by several banks showed that Barrientos made frequent cash deposits ranging from $10,000 to more than $373,000 into accounts held in her name or the name of her salon. These deposits totaled more than $3.5 million during a 9-month period in 2021.
Since February 2021, members of the drug trafficking organization also purchased a total of nine residential properties in Oregon, Washington and Nevada with an estimated total value of more than $4.6 million. All nine properties were purchased outright with no mortgages. Barrientos used laundered funds to purchase eight of these properties. She then used third-party property management companies to rent these properties and received approximately $10,000 per month in rental income.
On February 17, 2022, DEA agents arrested Barrientos and an associate at their Las Vegas residence. Agents found and seized two luxury vehicles, several loose receipts documenting high-end retail purchases, credit card statements documenting more than $16,000 spent on tickets to attend a professional boxing match, and other evidence memorializing the couple’s high-end lifestyle.
On February 9, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Barrientos with conspiracy to launder drug proceeds. She pleaded guilty on July 31, 2024.
Barrientos has agreed to forfeiture of the properties purchased with criminal proceeds as part of the resolution of her case. Some of the properties have been sold by the government; others are pending forfeiture and sale. The proceeds of forfeited assets are deposited in the Justice Department’s Assets Forfeiture Fund (AFF) and used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of other law enforcement purposes. To learn more about the AFF, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/afp/assets-forfeiture-fund-aff.
This case was investigated by DEA with assistance from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), IRS:CI, Tigard Police Department, and Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by Peter D. Sax, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by AUSA Katie De Villiers, also of the District of Oregon.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. 23 Oct. 2024 – Yesterday, an Oregon State Police K-9 team intercepted fentanyl and heroin destined for Portland.
On Oct. 22, 2024, at about 11 a.m., an Oregon State Trooper stopped a vehicle for speeding on Interstate 5 northbound near milepost 135 in Douglas County. During the stop, the trooper observed signs of criminal activity and deployed a drug detection K-9. The vehicle search resulted in the discovery of 5.8 pounds of fentanyl and 5 pounds of heroin with suspected fentanyl inside the vehicle.
The driver, Dago Rodrigo Rodrigues (22) of Oakland (CA), and passenger, Mateo Marin Peraza (20) also of Oakland (CA) were arrested for unlawful possession and delivery of fentanyl and heroin and lodged in the Douglas County Jail.
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OSP Domestic Highway Enforcement Initiative
The Oregon State Police-Domestic Highway Enforcement (OSP-DHE) Initiative is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the OSP-DHE Initiative.
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. 23 Oct. 2024 – Roseburg area Fish and Wildlife troopers are asking for the public’s assistance to locate and apprehend the person responsible for unlawfully killing a buck deer and leaving it to waste earlier this week.
The preliminary investigation indicates the buck was shot multiple times with a handgun from the roadway. The incident occurred between 6 and 7 p.m. on Oct. 20, 2024, in the 500 block of South Deer Creek Road. The individual left the area in a vehicle traveling southbound on South Deer Creek Road.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Matt Bowersox through OSP Dispatch at 800-442-2068 or OSP (677) from a mobile device. Those with information can remain anonymous and a TIP reward for cash or preference points will be offered for information leading to a citation or arrest in the case. Please reference Oregon State Police case number #SP24344796.
Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators
The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.
The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuing a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.
Preference Point Rewards
5 Points: Bighorn Sheep
5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat
5 Points: Moose
5 Points: Wolf
4 Points: Elk
4 Points: Deer
4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope
4 Points: Bear
4 Points: Cougar
The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling licenses or tags, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.
Cash Rewards
Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:
$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose
$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope
$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$300 Habitat destruction
$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags
$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)
$200 Game Fish & Shellfish
$200 Game Birds or Furbearers
$200 Spotlighting
$200 Snagging/Attempt to Snag
Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:
$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey
$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox
$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:
$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.
How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:
TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)
TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
For more information visit: www.oregon.gov/osp/programs/fw/Pages/tip.aspx
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
Lane County, Ore 22 Oct 24- On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 3:15 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Hwy 126, near milepost 19, in Lane County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Kenworth log truck, operated by Billy Lee Bales Coder (50) of Myrtle Point, was passing through the Knowles Creek Tunnel when a catastrophic engine failure caused an oil spill approximately 200 yards long before the vehicle exited the tunnel and parked along side the roadway.
A westbound Nissan Rogue, operated by Mary Helen Dale (65) of Florence, lost control in the oil slick and crashed into the Kenworth before moving off of the highway.
A westbound Toyota Prius, operated by Radiant Jaime Gaines (48) of Eugene, lost control in the oil slick, crossed into the eastbound lane and struck an eastbound Chevrolet HHR, operated by Christine Dorene Weathers (59) of Florence, head-on.
The operator of the Chevrolet (Weathers) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The operator of the Kenworth (Coder) was not injured.
The operator of the Nissan (Dale) was not injured.
The operator of the Toyota (Gaines) suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local medical center.
The highway was impacted for approximately 9.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
OSP was assisted by Western Lane Ambulance and Fire, Mapleton Fire, and ODOT.
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About the Oregon State Police
Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that protects Oregon's people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.
WSU Tri-Cities Halloween Fest offers a fun and safe option to celebrate Halloween.
Why: Great photo/video opportunity. Includes a variety of activities for all ages. Open to the community.
Who: Washington State University Tri-Cities Student Entertainment Board
What: WSU Tri-Cities Halloween Fest
Family-friendly event featuring a trunk-or-treat, haunted house, coffee truck, free face painting, free mini doughnuts, and more!
When: Wednesday, Oct. 30. from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: The event will be held in the parking lot of the Consolidated Information Center (CIC) on the WSU Tri-Cities campus, 2770 Crimson Way, Richland.
The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly board meeting in Hood River on October 23, at the Hood River Library. The Board approved four boating facility grant applications as part of the agency’s Cycle Three funding opportunity for the 2023-2025 biennium. The Board also approved opening rulemaking and gathering public comments on proposed rule language for the Upper Rogue River.
The Board awarded $286,824 in Cycle Three boating facility grants for projects totaling $471,690:
In another agenda item, the Board discussed the public comments received during its Upper Rogue River hybrid Work Session in Medford, held on October 2. Staff provided marine law enforcement data and offered rule language for consideration, including redefining the section of the Upper Rogue River to align with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s fishing regulations and to also include Rogue River tributaries. Other recommendations include a motor restriction of over 10 hp which is consistent with Coast Guard regulations. Staff also recommended provisions specific to commercial jet boat operations along with provisions that allow law enforcement and search and rescue to be exempt from these regulations while conducting official business.
The Board approved opening rulemaking for the Upper Rogue River to gather comments on the proposed rule language. Procedurally, agency staff will open a written public comment period in addition to scheduling a rule hearing in a similar format to the October 2nd Work Session in Medford, to comply with the Oregon Secretary of State Rulemaking hearing procedures. Comments will then be presented to the Board at its January 2025 meeting. The Board can modify, adopt or end the rulemaking process. If there are substantiative modifications to the rule language, staff would be required to conduct a repeated hearing process for transparency and additional public comments.
To view the Board Book and presentation, visit the agency’s Public Meetings Page.
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The Marine Board is directly funded by boaters in the form of registration, title, and permit fees, as well as through marine fuel taxes. No lottery, general fund tax dollarsor local facility parking fees support the agency or its programs. Boater-paid fees support the boating public through boating safety services (on-the-water law enforcement, training, and equipment), boating safety education, grants for the construction and maintenance of boating access facilities, and environmental protection programs.
RICHLAND, Wash. – The College of Education at Washington State University Tri-Cities was awarded a $3.1 million grant, funding a new multilingual educator project. The project, titled Certifying and Advancing Multilingual Teachers by Increasing Numbers Through Three Grow-Your-Own Strands (CAMINOS), will fund preservice teachers pursuing signature preparation pathways at WSU—the Alternative Route, the Teaching Bridge, and the Dual Language Pathway Certificate—with the aim of increasing multilingual educators in the Tri-Cities region and statewide, and preparing them to work with multilingual learners.
Fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education Office of English Language Acquisition’s National Professional Development program, the development of CAMINOS is in response to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction’s (OSPI) initiative to provide all Washington students with access to dual language programs.
For eligible WSU students, CAMINOS will cover fees and full tuition for two cohorts of Alternative Route and Teaching Bridge students on the Tri-Cities campus, and summer tuition for four cohorts of eligible Dual Language Pathway Certificate students statewide.
The grant will also fund partnering districts’ Teaching Academies that provide college credit-bearing classes to high school students, and bolster WSU research and development efforts focused on supporting dual language programming and instructional development in partnering elementary schools.
“The body of work supported by this grant aligns with the college’s mission to expand access to higher education and prepare the next generation of educational leaders ready to interact with and support multiple levels and types of diversity in our classrooms,” said Karen Thomas-Brown, dean of the College of Education. “Funding work like this ensures that future educators and students from linguistic and culturally diverse backgrounds see a clear path to higher education and opportunities to experience the high-quality teaching, learning, and experiences the college is known for. Furthermore, creating multiple alternate paths to higher education meets our mission of increasing access and opportunities in the future.”
The grant team consists of six WSU faculty and staff across the Tri-Cities and Pullman campuses: Yuliya Ardasheva, multilingual education; Lindsay Lightner, Alternative Route coordinator; Yun-Ju Hsiao, special education; Danica Garcia, Teaching Bridge program coordinator; Anne Marie Guerrettaz, multilingual education; and Shenghai Dai, psychometrics and evaluation.
“Our team has been very fortunate to partner with Kennewick, Pasco, Prosser, and Richland School Districts, among others, in supporting WSU Tri-Cities programs tailored to the districts’ need for highly qualified teachers who are adept at working with learners from all backgrounds,” said Lightner.
Ardasheva, who serves as the principal investigator for the grant, expressed that the team is excited to join the Department of Education’s National Professional Development Program committed to promoting opportunities for multiliteracy skills development for all students.
The three pathways each provide students with opportunities to earn their degrees in a way that suits them best, while gaining valuable, hands-on classroom experience:
“It is very exciting that this grant will provide funding to support students in our programs, two of them developed with our local school districts,” said Judy Morrison, academic director for the College of Education. “The ‘grow-your-own’ pathways are important for our local communities because of the collaboration and improved academic outcomes for students.”
For more information about the College of Education at WSU Tri-Cities, visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/education/.
Information about the Dual Language Pathway Certificate for WSU students statewide is available at https://catalog.wsu.edu/Pullman/Academics/Certificate/1094.
PR 19-24
BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Wednesday, October 23, 2024
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, BPA, 971-207-8390 or 503-230-5131
Michael-David Bushman, Yakama Nation Fisheries, 509-865-5121 ext. 6345
Upgrades to Klickitat Hatchery to increase spring Chinook salmon
Work will shift hatchery production to incorporate natural-origin broodstock
and boost smolts from 600,000 to 800,000 annually
Portland, Ore. – Members of the Yakama Nation, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, NOAA Fisheries, and the Bonneville Power Administration gathered at a hatchery nestled in the 42-river mile of the Klickitat River on October 11 to celebrate the construction, now underway, of upgrades intended to boost the population and resilience of spring Chinook salmon in the river basin.
The Klickitat Hatchery was originally constructed in 1949 and is operated by the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation to rear spring and fall Chinook as well as late-run coho salmon. BPA is spending roughly $35 million to upgrade several components of the hatchery still operating with 75-year-old equipment. That work is focused on improving the spring Chinook population, with plans to increase juvenile production from 600,000 to 800,000 annually.
“BPA is funding the upgrades to enable the Yakama to move from exclusively using hatchery-raised fish for broodstock to incorporate natural-origin broodstock,” said Jason Sweet, executive manager of BPA’s fish and wildlife program. “By integrating natural-origin broodstock, we expect to see greater fitness, production and survival of these salmonids.”
These capital improvements help to fulfill commitments BPA made in the 2008 Columbia Basin Fish Accords Memorandum of Agreement and its subsequent extensions. The project is part of BPA’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the effects of the Federal Columbia River Power System on fish and wildlife in the mainstem Columbia River and its tributaries.
The importance of the event was not lost on the chairman of the Yakama Nation, Gerald Lewis.
"A wonderful day – the sun bearing witness, birds singing, as everyone was there to celebrate with the tribe for 20 years of holding the hatchery together,” Lewis said. “The words spoken by BPA, NOAA, WDFW, BIA, Klickitat County and by YN helped preserve all the work done by the entities coming together as one. The tribe never gave up on our resource of Spring Salmon, Steelhead, Coho and Lamprey. Now with the Fish Accord Agreement, BPA and the Yakama Nation have come together to rebuild the aging hatchery to better support fisheries across the Northwest.
“It is only through prayer and song that Yakama can keep the resources going forward as Elders have been saying since the demise of Celilo. With the help of other entities, we are making progress on our natural resources.”
Other key supporters of the Yakama/Klickitat Fisheries Project were on hand for the celebration as well, including Klickitat County, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.
Construction on the upgrades at Klickitat Hatchery began in September and include:
Work on the upgrades is expected to be completed in June of 2026 with the first yearlings released from the upgraded facilities in May of 2027.
About BPA
The Bonneville Power Administration, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a nonprofit federal power marketer in the U.S. Department of Energy that sells wholesale, carbon-free hydropower from 31 federal dams in the Columbia River Basin. It also markets the output of the region’s only nuclear plant. BPA delivers this power to more than 140 Northwest electric utilities, serving millions of consumers and businesses in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, western Montana and parts of California, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage power lines and 261 substations, and provides transmission service to more than 300 customers. In all, BPA provides nearly a third of the power generated in the Northwest. To mitigate the impacts of the federal dams, BPA implements a fish and wildlife program that includes working with its partners to make the federal dams safer for fish passage. It also pursues cost-effective energy savings and operational solutions that help maintain safe, affordable, reliable electric power for the Northwest. www.bpa.gov
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The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will honor all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during its Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.
This event will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of "Taps."
The celebration will honor Oregon veterans of all eras and will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park located on Court Street Northeast in Salem — directly in front of the main entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building.
The event is open to the public and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be provided. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.
For those unable to attend, the event will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/odvavet. If you have any questions about this event, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit www.oregon.gov/odva.
Spokane, Washington – On October 23, 2024, United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice sentenced James Edward Kensler, age 45, of Spokane, Washington to 60 months in prison for violently assaulting his girlfriend. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release. At the time of the offense, Kensler was on federal supervised release. As a penalty for the supervised release violation, Judge Rice imposed a penalty of 18 months which will be served consecutively to the 60-month sentence imposed in this case.
According to court documents and information presented during proceedings in the case, Kensler was with his girlfriend at the Northern Quest Resort & Casino in May 2024. Kensler, who is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, grabbed his victim by the back of the head and threw her on the ground with such force that the impact of her head hitting the couch moved two couches and a table forward.
Kensler then chased his victim through the resort. When Kensler caught his victim, he again threw her to the ground, attempted to stomp on her face, punched her in the face, slapped her, and hit her with his knee. When Kensler’s victim attempted to escape a second time, he again pursued her and threw her into a closed elevator door.
In the resort parking lot, Kalispel Tribal Police Officers apprehended Kensler and provided aid to his victim. Officers noted the victim’s face was swollen and that she had multiple scrapes.
“Mr. Kensler violently and repeatedly assaulted his victim, causing her severe injuries. Furthermore, Mr. Kenlser had a history of domestic violence offenses and was on federal supervised release at the time of this latest assault,” stated U.S. Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “Focusing our prosecutions on repeat offenders and those with prior domestic violence convictions is one of our strategies to support community safety and address the root causes underlying the MMIP crisis. My office is committed to working with our partners in Tribal and Federal law enforcement to secure justice for all victims and to build safer and stronger communities on Tribal lands and throughout Eastern Washington.”
“When Mr. Kensler was taken into custody, he was treated respectfully.” said Kelly M. Smith, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “The same cannot be said of how he treated his girlfriend. This case demonstrates successful partnerships, as in this case with the Kalispel Tribal Police, we can help reduce violent crime on our state’s reservations.”
“We are committed to the safety and security of our guests,” said Police Chief Rodney Schurger of the Kalispel Tribal Police Department. “Our officers responded swiftly to this violent incident and worked closely with the FBI to ensure that justice was served.”
“The safety of our guests, Tribal Members, and team members is our top priority,” said Kalispel Tribal Council Vice Chair Curt Holmes. “Domestic violence and other violent crimes are growing concerns across the nation and in the Spokane region. We are thankful for the prompt actions of our Tribal Police Department and the FBI’s involvement in this case. We also appreciate the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their dedication to prosecuting violent offenders like Mr. Kensler and helping to keep our communities safe.”
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Kalispel Tribal Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Ellis.
2:24-cr-00074-TOR
When: October 24 – 31
Where: Virtual via Zoom, or
In person at the BLM Ashland Field Office, Oregon
Who: Emma Busk, Wildlife Technician
Contact: Jeanne Panfely, jpanfely@blm.gov
Ashland, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management’s annual Bat Beauty Contest returns! Your local Oregon bats are here to defend their crown and try to take home the top prize for the third year in a row.
Each October, the BLM hosts a beauty contest to find the most stunning bat photographed on BLM public lands across the county. The event begins on October 24 and ends on Halloween. It also coincides with International Bat Week, which raises awareness about bat conservation and the essential role bats play in the natural world.
This year, there are two Oregon bats participating in the contest! Hoary Potter, a male hoary bat with a feisty personality, will compete in the first round of the contest October 24. Honey Bunches of Myotis, a long-eared myotis bat, will compete in the second round of the contest October 25.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, located primarily in 11 western states and Alaska. Those other states are working hard to end the batty three-peat. You can help Oregon bring home the crown by voting on the BLM National Facebook page or the BLM National Instagram page.
Last year, William ShakespEAR, a female Townsend’s big-eared bat from Butte Falls, took home the crown on the afternoon of October 31. During the final round, she beat out Gizmo, an Allen's Big-Eared Bat. William was photographed by Emma Busk, BLM wildlife technician.
The year before, the BLM crowned Barbara, a canyon bat from Lake County, the 2022 Bat Beauty Contest Winner. Barbara was photographed by Kate Yates, BLM wildlife biologist.
Both of this year’s bats were photographed by Busk.
“It’s important that we fact check what we think we know about bats,” said Busk. “There are a lot of myths around bats, but they’re amazing wildlife and they contribute so much to our ecosystem.”
Bats play an essential role in Oregon. All bats in the Pacific Northwest are insectivorous, meaning they rid our world of pests like mosquitos, beetles, and moths. Just one bat can eat up to 1,200 mosquitoes in an hour!
Want to do your part? As we head into winter, avoid exploring mines and caves where bats may be hibernating.
“In your own backyard, you can have a bat house!” said Emma. “It’s a shelter that helps protect bats during the winter. You can also make your garden more bat friendly by planting native flowers to attract insects and turning off any unnecessary lights. Light pollution is not great for bats."
Want to get involved? Follow the Bureau of Land Management Oregon/Washington on Facebook (@BLMOregonAndWashington) or Instagram (@BLMOregonWashington). We’ll be sharing how you can vote for Hoary Potter and Honey Bunches of Myotis and support your native Oregon species!
-BLM-
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in the 11 Western states and Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. In fiscal year 2018, the diverse activities authorized on BLM-managed lands generated $105 billion in economic output across the country. This economic activity supported 471,000 jobs and contributed substantial revenue to the U.S. Treasury and state governments, mostly through royalties on minerals.
Salem – Improving worker safety in Oregon's pulp, paper, and forest products industries will take center stage during a conference held Dec. 3-6 in Portland that will highlight key safety and health topics. Those topics include everything from fall protection and potential equipment failures to starting and expanding safety programs.
Although the 32nd annual Western Pulp, Paper, and Forest Products Safety and Health Conference delves into safety and health issues in those industries, the event also offers learning opportunities that apply to many other workplaces. Those sessions include nutrition and wellness in the workplace; tools for creating effective safety committees; root cause analysis; and making an emergency plan for your household.
The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) is one of several partners presenting the four-day conference at the Holiday Inn Portland – Columbia Riverfront in Portland.
The conference will feature three keynote and general session speakers:
The conference will include exhibits, company safety meetings, roundtable discussions, and numerous workshops.
Sessions include:
The registration fee is $450 to attend the full conference. The fee to attend one day – Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday – is $150. It is $50 for Friday. To register, go to https://safetyseries.cventevents.com/event/wppfp24/.
If you have questions or need help registering, call the Oregon OSHA Conference Section at 503-947-7411, or email egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov">oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov.
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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
Salem, Oregon — The State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024. The meeting will take place remotely via the internet on Microsoft Teams and is open to the public. The agenda and handouts will be posted on the council’s website.
The State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council is established by Governor Kotek’s Executive Order 23-26, Establishing a State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council.
The purpose of the Council is to recommend an action plan to guide awareness education, and usage of artificial intelligence in state government that aligns with the State’s policies, goals and values and supports public servants to deliver customer service more efficiently and effectively. The recommended action plan shall include concrete executive actions, policies and investments needed to leverage artificial intelligence while honoring transparency, privacy, and diversity, equity and inclusion.
Meetings of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council are open to the public.
Public comment may be made during the meeting. Sign-up for public comment is required as spots are limited. Sign-up closes Monday, Oct. 28 at 1:00 p.m. Written comment will also be accepted. Written comment can be submitted by mail to the Council Support Office, 550 Airport Rd SE Suite C, Salem, OR 97301 or online via the office form.
Accommodations can be arranged for persons with disabilities, and alternate formats of printed material are available upon request. Please contact Enterprise Information Services at 503-378-3175 at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to request accommodations. Closed captioning is included on the Microsoft Teams meeting.
Links: