View this release online.

MULTNOMAH COUNTY, Ore. (MCSO) – Tonight, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) issued an AMBER Alert for two missing and endangered children who are believed to be with their non-custodial mother.

Based on preliminary information, in December 2025, a Multnomah County judge granted temporary custody of eight-year-old Haizlee Wright and seven-year-old Brinzlee Wright to their father. The court ordered supervised parenting‑time conditions for the mother, 37-year-old Ann Marie Quarles.

On February 13, 2026, a family member dropped off both children with Quarles, but she did not return the children as expected. On February 20, 2026, the court determined Quarles to be in violation of the custody order and directed law enforcement to assist the father in recovering the children.

On February 24, 2026, MCSO went to Quarles’ apartment, located in the 2600-block of Southeast 145^th Avenue in Portland, but neither she nor the two girls were there.

During the investigation, deputies were told Quarles may have left over the weekend with the girls. Due to the circumstances, MCSO law enforcement deputies requested assistance from MCSO detectives.

Deputies reached Quarles by phone on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, who told them she was in Moses Lake, Washington but refused to give her exact location. Deputies instructed her to contact local law enforcement, but she refused. Quarles also told deputies that she did not intend to comply with the court’s order.

Detectives believe Haizlee and Brinzlee may be in danger.

Although Quarles told deputies she is in Washington, that information has not been confirmed. There could be a chance she and the two girls are in Portland.

Haizlee and her sister, Brinzlee, are both white females, approximately 4 feet tall and weighing between 40 and 45 pounds. They each have dark blonde hair and blue eyes.

Community members are urged to call 9-1-1 if they see Haizlee and Brinzlee or Quarles.

AMBER Alerts are issued to rapidly disseminate vital information to the public and partner agencies to assist in the safe recovery of children believed to have been abducted and are in imminent danger. 

An AMBER Alert is issued only when certain criteria are met, including:

• Reasonable belief that an abduction has occurred.
• The missing child is 17 years of age or younger and believed to be in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.
• Sufficient descriptive information is available about the child, suspect, and/or suspect’s vehicle that can assist in the child’s recovery.
• Required information has been entered into national law enforcement information systems. 

(Above photo: Brinzlee Wright)

(Above photo: Haizlee Wright)

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Gearhart, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today for secretly filming a minor victim while nude and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Joseph Tyler Biamont, 35, pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, Gearhart Police discovered that Biamont was in possession of a thumb drive containing secretly recorded videos of the minor victim while nude. The videos were filmed from what appeared to be a dummy smoke detector above the victim’s bed, behind a teddy bear, and from Biamont’s cell phone, depicting the minor victim going to the bathroom, showering, and changing clothes. Biamont is visible in some of the videos. Investigators also found files of CSAM of other minor victims on Biamont’s thumb drive and videos of an adult victim nude in the bathroom.

On May 6, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Biamont with sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

On count one, Biamont faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. On count six, Biamont faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 19, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Biamont has agreed to pay restitution to the victims.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case with assistance from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and the Gearhart Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

# # #

Oregon Senate Bill 1570 will hold federal immigration officers accountable inside hospitals, protect patients’ and providers’ rights, and ensure everyone can access healthcare without fearing for their safety.

(SALEM, Ore.) – Healthcare workers applauded Tuesday as the Oregon Senate voted to pass the Healthcare Without Fear Act, Senate Bill 1570, to ensure hospitals are places of healing and trust; not fear or intimidation. The Healthcare Without Fear Act ensures federal immigration agents are accountable to the same standards as state and local law enforcement inside hospitals; safeguards patients’ private health information; and improves Oregonians’ health and safety.

“This bill is not abstract policy—it is a promise. A promise that Oregon’s hospitals will be safe spaces. A promise that violence and intimidation have no place in healthcare settings. A promise that caregivers can do their jobs without fear. And a promise that all patients are treated with the dignity, humanity, and protection they deserve,” said ONA President Tamie Cline, RN. 

The Healthcare Without Fear Act comes after recent federal policy changes have made hospitals, clinics, and schools targets for immigration enforcement actions from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In Oregon federal immigration agents shot two people in a hospital parking lot; arrested an entire family trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER; and reportedly failed to follow protocols inside hospitals by entering restricted areas, exposing protected health information, and interfering with patients’ care. 

Senate Bill 1570 requires hospitals to create policies around all law enforcement interactions, designate a point person to interface with law enforcement to reduce burdens on frontline caregivers, and clearly designate public and private spaces. It protects patients’ privacy by classifying immigration status and place of birth as protected health information and empowers healthcare providers to share information about immigration rights or legal services with patients and their families.

“Our patients do not feel safe seeking necessary and life-saving medical care. This injustice strikes at the heart of our healthcare system,” said ONA member Jayesh Palshikar, RN. “The Healthcare Without Fear Act will protect providers and patients, hold federal officers accountable to basic hospital standards and begin restoring trust in our healthcare system.”

Following today’s successful Senate vote, the bill will move on to the House Committee on Health Care.

More information on the Healthcare without Fear Act can be found at OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear. 

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The Governing Board of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) will meet on Tuesday, March 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:50 p.m. This public meeting will be conducted as a teleconference.

The meeting agenda, including call-in information, is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/about/govboard/boardagenda_03_10_2026.pdf

The DOGAMI Governing Board sets policy, oversees general operations, and adopts a strategic plan every six years. The Board meets at least quarterly. As active members of their communities, Board members provide an important connection between Oregonians and DOGAMI’s mission of providing earth science information and regulation to make Oregon safe and prosperous.

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Polk County, Ore. (Feb. 24, 2026) - On Monday, February 23, 2026, at 9:51 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 22, at the intersection with Highway 51, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Salem-Keizer Thomas school bus, operated by Chandra Jean Milkovich-Howard (33) of Turner, attempted a left turn onto southbound Highway 51. The school bus entered the path of an eastbound Honda Pilot, operated by Luke Richard Brittan (68) of Independence, causing a head-on crash.

The operator of the Honda (Brittan) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Thomas school bus (Milkovich-Howard) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital

The school bus was occupied by 2 adults and 30 students. One student suffered a reported minor injury and was transported to an area hospital.

The highway was impacted for approximately four hours during the on-scene investigation. An unsafe left turn is considered the primary cause of the collision. The Thomas operator was issued a citation for the unsafe left turn. The investigtion is on-going and will be forwarded to the district attorney when complete for consideration.

OSP was assisted by the Polk County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

PORTLAND, Ore. (Feb. 23, 2025) ~ More adults in their 40s, 50s and early 60s are being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart rhythm disorder long associated with older patients, and cardiologists say the shift has significant implications for long-term heart and stroke risk. This Heart Month, cardiac electrophysiologist Dr. Jeffrey Lin, MD, is available for interviews to discuss why AFib is increasingly being diagnosed in people younger than traditional retirement age, and what midlife adults should know about symptoms, stroke risk, and prevention.

Recent large-scale studies show more than 25 percent of people diagnosed with atrial fibrillation are now under age 65, driven by rising rates of high blood pressure, obesity, sleep apnea, alcohol use and smoking, along with wider use of ECGs (electrocardiograms) and wearable heart monitors that can detect irregular heart rhythms earlier. At the same time, U.S. mortality data show AFib-related death rates among non-elderly adults have risen over the past two decades, underscoring the importance of early detection and prevention.

"Many people still think of atrial fibrillation as a condition that only affects older adults, but we're seeing it more often in patients in their 40s and 50s," said Dr. Lin. "The good news is there are clear steps people can take to lower their risk, from managing blood pressure and weight to addressing sleep apnea and reducing alcohol and tobacco use. Recognizing symptoms early is also critical because early treatment makes a difference."

Interviews available:

Dr. Jeffrey Lin, MD, cardiac electrophysiologist with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for interviews on Wednesday, Feb. 25 from 10 a.m.- noon. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule.

​Dr. Lin is prepared to discuss:

• Why atrial fibrillation is being diagnosed more often in adults under 65
• Key risk factors, including high blood pressure, obesity, sleep apnea, alcohol use, and smoking
• Symptoms people should not ignore and when to seek medical care
• The link between AFib and stroke risk, and why early diagnosis matters
• Prevention strategies and lifestyle changes that support heart rhythm health

About Kaiser Permanente 

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America's leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.6 million members in 9 states a nd the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. For more information, go to about.kp.org. 

BASIC CORRECTIONS FIREARMS

WORKGROUP MEETING

SCHEDULED

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on March 3, 2026, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Harvest tax allocation for fiscal year 2027 (FY27) district budgets
• Weather update
• Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF) fiscal year 2025 (FY25) ending balance and current financial status
• Status reports on EFCC work groups
• Fiscal year 2025 (FY25) audit report
• Administrative Branch/Protection Division/Administrator reports

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-881-8292 or by email at na.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov">lorna.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of providing funds for fiscal year budgets of forest protection districts, investments in supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that enhance fire protection in the state and issuing loans to the Oregon Department of Forestry or forest protection associations that relate to wildfire costs. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

HAREFEST ANNOUNCES 2026 LINEUP

The Mother of All Tribute Festivals Continues to Set the Standard 

Canby, OR – (February 23, 2026) HAREFEST has announced its lineup for the 14th year of the annual tribute band music festival at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds & Event Center. The 3-day festival takes place July 16–18, 2026 and features 24 bands on two stages, including tributes to QUEEN, FLEETWOOD MAC, LED ZEPPELIN, DEF LEPPARD, EAGLES, MOTLEY CRUE, TOM PETTY, RUSH, AC/DC, ABBA, DURAN DURAN, FOO FIGHTERS, JUDAS PRIEST, HEART, ALICE IN CHAINS, THE CARS, BON JOVI, STEVE MILLER BAND, BILLY JOEL, BOSTON, BEASTIE BOYS, IRON MAIDEN, YACHT ROCK, and more. Each night features a finale set in the Event Center’s courtyard (dubbed “Hippie Hollow”) that includes a laser light show produced by Laser Gator. 

Harefest returns to the Clackamas County Fairgrounds & Event Center and is once again expanding its footprint to include additional RV parking and tent sites after selling out well in advance for several consecutive years. In all, nearly 500 overnight spaces are available for what’s been referred to as “The Coachella of Tribute Bands.” 

Other event highlights for this year’s edition of HAREFEST include: 

• An “After 5pm” ticket option for Friday and Saturday nights

• Video walls on each side of the main stage for enhanced concert viewing

• A Saturday morning “Yacht Rock Brunch” featuring Red Light Romeos

• The “Farewell Performance” of Anthem - Rush Tribute

• Rock Shop’s Headbangers Ball with special guests, closing out the festival and hosted by legendary Ozzy impersonator Tim Tugg of Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne tribute

Now in its 14th year, Harefest has grown from a regional gathering of tribute band fans into the cornerstone event of a multi-festival portfolio produced by Harefest LLC. In addition to Harefest, the company also produces Legends Reloaded, Capital City Retro Fest, 90’s Flannel Fest, and Seattle Retro Fest, further expanding its footprint as a tribute-focused festival producer in the Pacific Northwest.

“Over the past few years, we’ve been fortunate to grow beyond Harefest and launch additional festivals throughout the region,” said co-founder Jason Fellman. “But Harefest remains the event that started it all. It’s our biggest production, our most established tradition, and the one that continues to set the standard for everything we do. Every year we reinvest what we’ve learned across our other events to make Harefest even better.”

Harefest is a 21-and-over event. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 27 at 10 a.m. via Afton Tickets at harefest.com/tickets. 

LINKS 

Festival website: www.harefest.com

Additional Band Info: www.j-fell.com 

Logos / Images / Site Maps: https://bit.ly/HarefestMedia 

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February 23, 2026

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831 

Application deadline extended for OAC Council

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

Application extended: To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, March 15, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by March 31, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">BHRN@oha.oregon.gov ,or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

# # #

Lane County has hired long-time public health leader and current deputy public health manager, Brian K. Johnson, as thePublic Health division manager. Johnson’s first day as manager will be March 5 and he will report to Kachina Inman, Lane County Health & Human Services Assistant Director. 

In his new role, Johnson will oversee strategic direction for LCPH, foster and maintain community, state, and national partnerships, as well as oversee the many public health programs which serve Lane County. 

"Brian brings over 28 years of public health experience and we are confident in his ability to leverage that experience to lead LCPH in improving the health of the many communities of Lane County,” said Lane County Health & Human Services Director, Eve Gray. “His strategic vision, track record in steady, inclusive leadership and sheer passion for improving lives make him a natural choice to lead LCPH at this pivotal time."

"I look forward to continuing to lead the important work of public health in Lane County. It is a privilege to work closely with so many talented, passionate people working together to make this a place somewhere all have what they need to thrive ,"said Johnson.

A 28-plus-year veteran public health professional and researcher, Johnson has a reputation for his calm leadership under pressure, analytic approach, systems thinking, and ability to build effective teams.

Previously, as deputy manager, Johnson managed a $32 million budget and 8 supervisors responsible for 76 employees. Before becoming the LCPH Deputy Manager, Johnson served as the Lane County Environmental Health and Preparedness Supervisor. Over the course of his 21 years at LCPH, Johnsonhas been instrumental in helping manage everything from systems transformation to the Lane County COVID-19 response, as well as responses to multiple other natural disasters and disease outbreaks. 

Johnson holds a Masters of Public Health in Health Promotion from Oregon State University, a Public Health Management Certificate from the University of Washington, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Whitman College.

Lane County Public Health is a division of Lane County Health & Human Services. LCPH’S mission is to promote and protect the long-term health and well-being of individuals, families and the communities of Lane County. Their vision is optimal health for all people in Lane County.

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February 23, 2026

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, acher2@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov  

Oregon Health Authority welcomes new Principal Ombuds

On Friday, 2-20-2026, Lincoln City Police Department Officers responded to a vehicle that had struck a pedestrian in the area of NW 15^th Street on Highway 101.  When they arrived, they found 80-year-old Lincoln City resident, Joseph KOFFEND, injured on the street.  LCPD Officers, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue personnel, and Pacific West Ambulance staff provided medical care until KOFFEND was transported to the Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital.  KOFFEND was later pronounced deceased.

Thanks to the assistance of witnesses and video cameras in the area, Officers were able to identify the driver of the suspect vehicle as 45-year-old Juan Antonio SUAREZ JIMENEZ, of Lincoln City, Oregon.

Despite attempts to conceal SUAREZ JIMENEZ’s vehicle, it was later located outside of city limits.  It was seized under a search warrant.

On 2-22-2026 SUAREZ JIMENEZ came to the Lincoln City Police Department to turn himself in.  He was arrested and lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the charge of Failure to Perform Duties of Driver to Injured Persons (ORS 811.705), a Class B felony.  The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office will also be reviewing the reports for potential additional charges.

The Lincoln City Police Department would like to thank the citizens who assisted us in our life-saving efforts, as well as all the help we received in searching for the involved vehicle.  We would also like to thank NLFR, PacWest, and Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital, and the Lincoln County Major Crash Team for all their hard work.  ODOT was also instrumental in traffic control during the investigation.  Finally, the Oregon State Police and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office were both extremely helpful in taking calls for service while our department was working on the scene.

JCSO Case 26-0904

ASHLAND, Ore. - The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is investigating a single-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of two teenagers early Sunday morning. On February 22, at approximately 12:44 a.m., JCSO deputies responded to a motor vehicle crash in the 1350 block of East Nevada Street in rural Ashland. Upon arrival, emergency personnel located an Audi A6 that had struck a tree.

The car was occupied by five 17-year-old juveniles. Tragically, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. Jackson County Fire District 5 and Ashland Fire & Rescue personnel conducted a complex extrication to remove the remaining occupants from the vehicle. The Ashland Police Department (APD) responded to assist with the investigation.

Mercy Flights transported the four remaining occupants to a local hospital with critical injuries. Shortly after arrival, a passenger was pronounced deceased. The three remaining occupants continue to receive care at the hospital and are in stable condition.
 

The families of those involved have been notified. Out of respect for their privacy during this extremely difficult time, the names of the juveniles are being withheld. All five occupants were students at Ashland High School. The Ashland School District has been notified, and grief counseling resources are being coordinated for students and staff.

Ashland School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Hattrick shared the following statement:

“This is a devastating tragedy for our entire community. As a district, we are committed to surrounding our students, staff, and families with compassion, stability, and care in the days ahead.  We will be providing counseling support through local and regional support teams for as long as necessary. We ask our community to hold these families close in your thoughts and to honor their privacy as they navigate this profound loss.”

Ashland High School Principal Francisco Atanes added:

“Our hearts are shattered by this unimaginable loss. These students were valued members of our school community, and their absence will be deeply felt in our classrooms, on our campus, and throughout our town. Right now, our focus is on caring for our students, staff, and families as we grieve together and support one another.”

The preliminary investigation indicates the car was traveling eastbound on East Nevada Street at a high rate of speed. The driver lost control prior to a 90-degree curve, causing the car to leave the roadway and strike a tree. The impact caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle.

The case is being investigated by the Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team, a specialized unit dedicated to investigating fatal and complex serious injury collisions. The team operates through a collaborative interagency agreement between JCSO, Medford Police Department, APD, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

JCSO extends our deepest condolences and prayers to the families, friends, and the entire Ashland community affected by this tragedy.

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a 2 alarm house fire in Eugene’s University neighborhood early Sunday morning. At 4:10 AM on February 22, crews responded to a reported deck fire in the 1500 block of Orchard St.

Firefighters arrived within 4 minutes and found the fire had extended from the back deck into the wall and attic of a balloon-framed home, with smoke showing from the eaves. Crews redeployed to the second floor to stop attic extension while the truck prepared for vertical ventilation. 

The fire escalated quickly, prompting a second alarm. Extra firefighters are necessary for fires in older balloon-framed homes as design features allow fire to freely travel in the walls.  It is common for a fire to quickly spread to the attic while burning material falls through void spaces to bottom igniting multiple floors easily. 

One occupant exited safely prior to arrival. The homeowner has been displaced. The cause is under investigation and is suspected to involve a pet heating mat on the back porch.

The Lincoln City Police Department is desperately seeking assistance from the public in locating a wanted suspect, 45-year-old Juan Antonio Suarez Jimenez, of Lincoln City, Oregon. A nationwide extradition warrant has been issued for his arrest as the suspect in a hit-and-run crash leading to the death of a local pedestrian. If you know of Juan Suarez’s whereabouts, please contact your local law enforcement. Juan, if you are reading this, please turn yourself in to start bringing closure to those that loved Joe.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

Mail Theft Investigation Leads to Arrest

On February 19, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies received multiple reports of mail theft near NW Kinglet St in Seal Rock. Through the course of the investigation, Deputies learned similar thefts had been occurring in the area, with packages, tax documents, and other mail being stolen over the last few months.

Deputies obtained photographs of the suspect from a nearby security camera, and disseminated these images to neighboring law enforcement agencies to assist in identifying the individual. Through this process, the suspect was identified as Joshua Van Hoorebeke of Toledo. Van Hoorebeke was contacted and taken into custody for Mail Theft (ORS 164.162).

Mail theft is a crime of opportunity and those who commit it are looking for anything of value. Thieves target mail for personal information, such as tax refunds or other checks, personal documents, bank documents, and credit card information. This information can be used to commit additional crimes, such as identity theft and bank fraud. To protect yourself, pick up mail daily, use secure drop-off locations, and report suspicious activity immediately to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or at MailTheft.USPIS.gov. 

To report mail theft or other suspicious activity, please contact Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Salem, OR – February 20, 2026 – Over the past several years, Oregon’s public defense system has faced increasing barriers to effective indigent defense.  Courts across the state have confronted persistent shortages of defense attorneys and rising numbers of unrepresented defendants. At its peak, Marion County had close to 1,000 individuals facing criminal charges without appointed counsel.

Oregon’s constitution provides a public defender to people charged with a crime who cannot otherwise afford a lawyer.  Earlier this month, the Oregon Supreme Court issued its decision in State v. Roberts, holding that criminal cases must be dismissed if a defendant is not provided with counsel within 60 days in misdemeanor cases or 90 days in felony cases following their first court appearance.

Since Roberts, DA’s offices across the state- especially in counties designated as “crises counties,” or those who have large numbers of cases with unrepresented defendants- have had to dismiss their prosecutions.

Fortunately, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office is proud to report that in the days leading up to the Roberts decision, Marion County reduced its unrepresented list to zero.

This progress reflects extensive coordination across the Marion County justice system. Marion County Deputy District Attorneys worked closely with defense providers, including the Marion County Association of Defense Counsel, alongside the leadership of then-Presiding Judge Tracy Prall. Through coordinated case management, special dockets, and ongoing communication regarding attorney availability, Marion County was able to significantly reduce its unrepresented caseload.

Marion County’s early challenges were substantial. Previously one of the state’s crisis counties, the local system struggled to meet demand when defense providers reached maximum allowable caseloads, or “MAC.”  This contributed to a growing backlog of unrepresented defendants and placed strains on victims accessing rights and law enforcement feeling seeing results. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office declined to dismiss cases, provide favorable resolutions, and was unwilling to not file certain categories of cases. 

Instead, Marion County prioritized in-custody cases, expanded docketing efforts, and worked collaboratively with defense partners willing to take on additional appointments.

“We took this crisis seriously from the beginning,” said Paige Clarkson, Marion County District Attorney. “Through strong collaboration with our partners, we were able to recently reduce our unrepresented list to zero and ensure cases continued moving forward.”

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy added, “I’m very proud of our team. This progress reflects a tremendous amount of work within the District Attorney’s Office and across the justice system, especially with local defense providers and the court. While the statewide challenges remain, Marion County has again demonstrated that focused local efforts and collaboration can make a significant impact on public safety.”

“The bottom line is when someone is charged with a crime, we must get that case into court,” he said.

Recent legislative investments and structural changes to the state’s public defense system have been significant. During the 2025 legislative session a nearly 15% budget increase to the Oregon Public Defense Commission was approved, for a total allocation of $707 million.  That is a 49% increase from 2019-20, when the state spent $367 million on Oregon’s public defense. 

While encouraged by the progress, DA Clarkson emphasized, “we must remain committed to a criminal justice system that prioritizes representation for all accused so that we can meet our public safety obligations to everyone. This is especially true considering the significant state-wide investment over recent years.”

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About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

JCSO Case 26-0879

WHITE CITY, Ore. — The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) arrested two armed carjacking suspects this morning following the theft of a vehicle at gunpoint in Portland. At 8:46 a.m. on Friday, February 20, a Flock License Plate Reader camera alerted JCSO deputies to the stolen vehicle’s presence in the White City area. 

Deputies attempted a traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield, leading deputies on a pursuit through the area of White City between Antelope Road and Avenue G. The suspect vehicle crashed into two uninvolved vehicles and was ultimately immobilized on Avenue G near Highway 62. 

Three individuals exited the vehicle and fled on foot, but were quickly outperformed and taken into custody. JCSO was assisted in the response by the Eagle Point Police Department and the Oregon State Police (OSP).

During the pursuit, a JCSO patrol vehicle was involved in a minor collision with an Eagle Point School District bus. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. OSP is investigating the crash. 

JCSO deputies arrested one adult and one juvenile suspect. The adult driver, Jhaywon Damon Brant, 21, of Beaverton, is charged with Attempting to Elude (Vehicle), Attempting to Elude (Foot), Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Criminal Mischief II, Providing False Information to a Police Officer, and a Detainer for Parole Violation. The juvenile suspect was lodged in the Jackson County Juvenile Detention facility for a Felony Parole Warrant.

The armed robbery is under investigation by the Portland Police Bureau. The local investigation is ongoing. Further information about yesterday’s carjacking may come from the Portland Police Bureau. There is no more information available at this time. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 20, 2026

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee

Tuesday, February 24, 2026

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council’s (LPSCC) – Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee will take place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:30 am via a virtual conference format.

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch or listen to the meeting via video or by phone. For information on how you can watch or listen to this meeting, please see the agenda, or contact Koree Tate at ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at www.douglascountyor.gov. To view the post meeting recording, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@douglascountyoregongov.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Program Contact: Koree Tate, Programs and Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department | Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel. 

The board’s business agenda includes:

• State forester introduction
• Legislative session update
• Board of Forestry Governance Committee’s recommendations to the Board Manual and best practices
• Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee comments
• State Forests: Update on the rulemaking process for the Western Oregon Forest Management Plan and Performance Measures
• Governor’s Natural Resource Team update
• Update on the Adaptive Management Program
• Tethered logging rulemaking

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

Signing up for live testimony is required. Instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base. Learn more about the board.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media hotline: 503-813-6018

PacifiCorp Announces Settlement of All Federal Claims for Damages from 2020 Labor Day Wildfires and 2022 McKinney Fire

Portland, Ore. (February 20, 2026) — PacifiCorp has reached a comprehensive settlement for $575 million resolving all known federal government claims for damages related to the 2020 Labor Day wildfires—including the 242, Archie Creek, Echo Mountain, Slater and South Obenchain fires—and the 2022 McKinney wildfire. 

“This settlement is another significant milestone demonstrating our ongoing commitment to resolve all reasonable claims related to the devastating fires that affected Oregon and California,” said Ryan Flynn, President of Pacific Power. “Setting aside claims arising from the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, we have now settled nearly 90 percent of known claims for a total of more than $2.2 billion, providing certainty for customers and progress toward a financially healthy utility.”

PacifiCorp continues to invest in wildfire prevention and mitigation initiatives, including situational awareness, advanced monitoring technologies, enhanced vegetation management and system strengthening. The company remains dedicated to collaborating with regulators, legislators and customers to develop long-term solutions that address the growing threat of wildfire and other extreme weather events.

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving two million customers. The company operates as Rocky Mountain Power in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming and as Pacific Power in California, Oregon and Washington. PacifiCorp provides safe and reliable service through a vast, integrated system of generation and transmission that connects communities as the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com.

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Central Point, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for felon in possession of a firearm after he and his co-defendants targeted an elderly victim and stole over $250,000 worth of gold, cash, and firearms.

Jonathan Anthony Kinsella, 53, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release. 

According to court documents, in August 2023, Kinsella, a convicted felon, came up with a plan and solicited his wife and friend to burglarize an elderly victim. Kinsella and the two co-defendants split approximately $103,000 in cash, $180,000 in gold coins, and five firearms. Police executed a search warrant at Kinsella’s residence and found a .40 S & W caliber pistol, a .30-30 Winchester caliber rifle, a Colt .38 Special revolver, and a 12-guage weapon made from a shotgun.

On February 1, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Kinsella with two counts of felon in possession of a firearm.

On October 20, 2025, Kinsella pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for ordering live-streamed child sexual abuse material from child sex traffickers in the Philippines in exchange for money.

Steven Daniel Griswold, 44, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $12,000 special assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018.

According to court documents, from 2018 through 2019, Griswold paid for and received livestreamed “shows” featuring the sexual abuse and exploitation of children as young as three years old in the Philippines. During the livestreams, Griswold gave child sex traffickers in the Philippines specific instructions on how to abuse the children and received child sexual abuse material from the traffickers. Griswold typically paid traffickers between $20 to $40 for the livestreams. Griswold left the United States for the Philippines in 2020 after learning he was under investigation for uploading child pornography to Snapchat in an unrelated case.

On November 14, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Griswold with sexual exploitation of children, attempted sexual exploitation of children, and receiving child pornography.

Griswold was arrested in the United States in March 2024 after being deported from the Philippines. He was transported to Portland, Oregon, for his arraignment on May 9, 2024. On November 5, 2025, Griswold pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eliza Carmen Rodriguez and Charlotte Kelley prosecuted the case.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— PacifiCorp has agreed to pay $575 million to resolve the United States’ claims for damages resulting from six wildfires in Oregon and California.

The four Oregon fires are:

• The “242 Fire,” which began on Sept. 7, 2020, near Chiloquin and burned 8,916 acres of federal land;
• The “Archie Creek Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, near French Creek in the Umpqua National Forest and burned 67,000 acres of federal land;
• The “Echo Mountain Complex Fire,” which began on Sept. 7, 2020, near Otis and burned approximately 2,500 acres, including federal land; and
• The “South Obenchain Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, east of Eagle Point and burned 14,780 acres of federal land.

The two California fires are:

• The “Slater Fire,” which began on Sept. 8, 2020, on Slater Butte National Forest lands within the Klamath National Forest and burned 157,229 acres of federal land within the Klamath, Six River, and Rogue River Siskiyou National Forests; and
• The “McKinney Fire,” which began on July 29, 2022, on land next to the Klamath National Forest and burned 39,000 acres of federal land.

The settlement resolves the United States’ claims that PacifiCorp’s electrical lines negligently started all six fires. The settlement monies will help repay the United States for the substantial costs it incurred fighting the fires, which is critical because the U.S. Forest Service now spends more than half of its budget on wildfire suppression annually. Settlement funds will also be distributed to the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to restore some of the 290,000 acres of public land that were burned.

These recoveries are among the largest federal wildfire recoveries to date.

“The United States and PacifiCorp have reached a settlement that ensures fair compensation to the American taxpayer for fire-related damages,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Department of Justice’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This agreement strikes a balance by addressing the government’s significant fire-suppression costs and loss of natural resources without preventing PacifiCorp from offering electricity at fair prices.”

“Wildfires remain a recurring threat to our natural resources, the safety of our communities, and their economic well-being. The costs of land losses and fire responses are substantial,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford. “Recouping the costs associated with these wildfires is a priority for our office, and this settlement achieves that.”

“This settlement served the Department’s longstanding policy of holding individuals and corporations responsible for damages caused by wildfires. Every fire impacting federal lands, no matter the size, is a priority,” said U.S. Attorney Eric Grant of the Eastern District of California.

This settlement is the result of a joint effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for Oregon and the Eastern District of California, the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexis Lien of the District of Oregon and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Amin and Kelli L. Taylor of the Eastern District of California handled the cases for the U.S. Attorney’s Offices.

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. PacifiCorp continues to deny liability for these fires.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 20, 2026

Statement from the District Attorney Regarding Grand Jury Decision

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County District Attorney, Rick Wesenberg is releasing the following statement regarding the recent criminal case involving two instructional aides from Fremont Middle School in Roseburg. 

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, the Douglas County Grand Jury returned a no true bill in the matter involving 60-year-old Brian Joseph Marsters and 23-year-old Erich Michael Hoque, two instructional aides employed by the Roseburg School District.  A no true bill indicates that the Grand Jury determined that there was not enough evidence to pursue criminal charges against either individual.  

Senior Deputy District Attorney Jodee Jackson presented the case to the Grand Jury. The Grand Jury reviewed surveillance video of the incidents and heard sworn testimony from two instructional aides who were present in the classroom at the time, the school principal, the deputy who investigated the incidents, and the parents of the injured students.

The incident in question resulted in injuries to two students, including one broken arm and a minor laceration that did not require stitches. The injuries occurred in a heavily padded room where the students were playing around large cylindrical mats. Activities included throwing balls and frisbees, wrestling, and other physical games involving both classmates and the instructional aides.

The injuries took place while the students were positioned behind the cylindrical mats. Although the instructional aides who were the subject of the criminal investigation were observed pushing the mats while interacting with the students shortly before the injuries occurred, there is not enough evidence to show that the two instructional aides did anything meaning to intentionally harm the students.  The injured students and their families may have the option to pursue civil remedies if they elect to do so.

The investigation involving Nathan Terrance Williams, a 35-year-old teacher at Fremont Middle School employed by the Roseburg School District, is ongoing. Williams has been charged with official misconduct and harassment. The matter will be presented to the Grand Jury in the near future, and the case remains pending.

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Contact Information:       Jodee Jackson, Douglas County Senior Deputy District Attorney, (541) 440-4388

The 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference: Stories, Culture, Place – Weaving Community Heritage will be in Woodburn and surrounding areas April 29 – May 2, 2026.
 

The conference is a time for people who share a common passion for Oregon’s heritage and history to come together to share insights, understand connections, develop relationships, learn new ways, reinforce the value of the work and leave energized to keep moving forward.
 

Designed to be interdisciplinary and cross-pollenating, the conference focuses on all sectors of cultural heritage, such as historic preservation, museums, archives, libraries, Main Streets, historic cemeteries, archaeology, Tribes, genealogy, public history, and local, state, federal government.
 

Communities are complex and varied, how they are viewed by visitors and residents is informed by the long history of human experience in that place and their own experiences. The 2026 Oregon Heritage Conference will explore the intersection of stories, culture and place to develop community heritage. This heritage is the anchor for participation, economic development, connection, and possibilities for a vibrant and healthy community. 
 

The City of Woodburn and Oregon Museums Association are valuable conference partners. Get conference details and registration information at www.oregonheritage.org. 

Highlights include:

• Keynote Speaker Monica Rhodes is an internationally recognized cultural heritage leader whose work is redefining how our nation understands memory and the future of historic places. She will be exploring the future of heritage work. This speaker was funded in part by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
• Celebrate with the Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards!
• Oregon Humanities Consider This – Labor, Farmworker Organizing, and Histories of Indigenous Communities in Oregon. Free and open to the public!

The sessions, workshops and tours will be spread throughout Woodburn and the surrounding area to help people preserving and sharing heritage and history in Oregon through 32 sessions, 6 topical networking meet ups, 8 workshops, 3 demonstrations, 10 tours, and a celebration of amazing heritage preservation work across the state.
 

Registration is available for Monica Rhodes keynote and the Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards alone and as part of the full conference registration.
 

Thanks to our conference sponsors: Oregon Correction Enterprises, America 250 Oregon Commission, University of Oregon Libraries, Historic Oregon Newspapers, Energy Trust of Oregon, and Proxi. And thank you to the 2026 Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards Sponsor Oregon Historical Society.

To learn more about the conference, visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional questions, translation and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

SALEM, Oregon— Starting March 30, 2026, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will no longer waive the parking fee at 22 additional day-use parks.

A day-use parking permit is currently $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors and is valid for the entire day of purchase at any Oregon state park.

Access to parks remains free for visitors who walk, bike, or use public transportation. Visitors who drive in can show valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a current 12 or 24-month parking permit. Visitors who purchase parking permits online or via the parking QR codes can associate their license plates with valid payment.

Currently, OPRD requires a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks across the state. The 22 additional parks were selected based on amenities and features that require maintenance and operation such as restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps and more. Parking fees help pay for maintenance, operation, and keep these offerings available for all visitors.

“These updates are about protecting the experiences visitors love,” said Interim Director Stefanie Coons. “We know fee changes are tough and we truly appreciate the support from visitors. These changes help us take care of things people count on like restrooms, boat ramps, and trails, so we can keep parks safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone.”

Oregon State Parks has three main sources of funding: a little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. It is not funded by general fund taxes.

For frequent visitors looking to save on parking, an annual parking permit is available for Oregon State Parks and can be purchased online. The 12-month parking permit costs $60 for Oregon residents. The 24-month parking permit is no longer for sale, but valid permits will be honored until they expire.

Additionally, March 30 also marks the start of a $10 fee at 19 RV dump stations across the park system. This fee helps cover the cost of maintaining this amenity and supports efforts toward more sustainable operations. Visitors can pay easily by scanning a QR code at the dump station or by paying online.

Whether you are visiting for the day or camping overnight, Oregon State Parks recommends that you visit the park webpage before your visit. Conditions can change quickly and some parks may have construction or seasonal closures.

Oregon state parks with parking fees added March 30, 2026:

• Agate Beach State Recreation Area
• Angel’s Rest Trailhead
• Banks-Vernonia State Trail
• Bob Straub State Park
• Brian Booth State Park
• Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
• Cape Blanco State Park
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
• Carl G Washburne Memorial State Park
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Elijah Bristow State Park
• Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
• Gleneden Beach State Recreation Area
• Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site
• Lake Owyhee State Park
• Latourell Falls Trailhead at Guy Talbot State Park
• Molalla River State Park
• Oceanside Beach State Recreation Area
• Roads End State Recreation Site
• Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
• Wallowa Lake State Park
• William M Tugman State Park

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Following the conviction of Joshual Paul Tallman by a jury last week, he was sentenced with a judgment imposed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.  Tallman was escorted from the courtroom by BCSO Deputies to begin a 25 year sentence with the Oregon Department of Corrections, followed by a lifetime of Post Prison Supervision.  He will also be required to register as a sex offender.  

Tallman was sentenced on multiple counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the First Degree.  While only six crimes were presented to the trial jury, the young victim maintained that Tallman abused her multiple times a week over a three year period.  Prior to sentencing, Judge Matthew Donohue found Tallman knew of the victim’s particular vulnerability because at the time of the crimes she was so young (six to eight years old), was alone in her own home, Tallman was in a special relationship of trust with the victim, and because the victim was afraid that if she told her mother of the abuse, her mother would not believe her because of the mother’s relationship with Tallman.

The judge opted against imposing consecutive sentences for any of the crimes, which could have resulted in a longer sentence, ordering that two 25 year sentences, and two 75 months sentences, would all run concurrently.  The judge indicated he had decided against a longer sentence because he believed Tallman could be rehabilitated. 

“Tallman imposed a life sentence on this young victim through his selfish acts.  In recognition of the multitude and magnitude of his crimes, it is my opinion that justice warranted longer than the minimum sentence,” said Benton County District Attorney Ryan Joslin.  “I am proud of the work done by Sr. DDA Matt Ipson.  His vigorous pursuit of justice through the truth resulted in this long overdue day of reckoning for the defendant and a day of new beginnings for the victim.”

https://youtube.com/shorts/BImQFixSIh0?feature=share

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Romanian national pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with an online intrusion into an Oregon state government office, along with multiple cyber attacks on other U.S. victims.

Catalin Dragomir, 45, formerly of Constanta, Romania, pleaded guilty to obtaining information from a protected computer and aggravated identity theft.

According to court documents, Dragomir sold access to a computer on the network of an Oregon state government office after obtaining unauthorized access to it in June 2021. During the sale of access to the computer, Dragomir provided the prospective buyer with samples of personal identifying information from the computer to prove he had actual access to the network. Dragomir also sold access to the computer networks of numerous other victims in the U.S., causing losses of at least $250,000.

On May 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Dragomir with obtaining information from a protected computer, money laundering, and aggravated identity theft.

Dragomir was arrested in Romania in November 2024 and extradited to the United States in January 2025.

Dragomir faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for obtaining information from a protected computer and a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000, and one year of supervised release for aggravated identity theft.

He will be sentenced on May 26, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Dragomir has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victims and forfeited cryptocurrency.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine A. Rykken for the District of Oregon and Trial Attorneys Benjamin A. Bleiberg and Alison M. Zitron of the Justice Department’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs worked with the Romanian Ministry of Justice, Directorate for International Law and Judicial Cooperation, and the Romanian judiciary to secure the arrest and extradition of Dragomir. The Department of Justice also thanks Darkweb IQ for its assistance with the investigation.

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.

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Tillamook Highway during December floods,, photo courtesy of ODOT

SALEM, Ore. — Gov. Tina Kotek has requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump following severe storms that struck Oregon from Dec. 15 to Dec. 21, 2025. The request seeks public assistance for nine counties — Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill — and statewide access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.  

 "The scale of damage from December's severe storms impacted multiple Oregon communities, with more than $15 million in losses and needed repairs. Rural communities are stretched beyond their limits, and help from FEMA is urgently needed,” Governor Kotek said. “I'm requesting a major disaster declaration from President Trump because Oregonians did the hard work of showing up for each other and they deserve federal support to rebuild." 

The storms brought record rainfall, high winds and an atmospheric river that caused widespread flooding, landslides and mudslides. At the peak, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, and multiple highways and interstates were closed. One person died in Yamhill County. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has created an interactive StoryMap detailing the event and its timeline. 

A joint preliminary damage assessment validated more than $15.4 million in eligible damages. Tillamook County had the highest per-capita damage at $154.29 per person. Without federal assistance, rural communities and consumer-owned utilities could face significant financial strain. 

“This storm struck our communities with little warning, leaving widespread damage and compounding the hardships from earlier storms and ongoing recovery efforts,” Erin McMahon, OEM director, said. “Local governments and utilities have worked tirelessly to protect lives and restore essential services, but the scale of destruction far exceeds what local resources can manage alone. Federal assistance is critical to help communities recover and build resilience against future disasters.” 

If approved, the declaration will provide funding for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to roads, bridges, utilities and other public infrastructure. Hazard mitigation funding would support long-term projects to reduce future disaster impacts.

For more information on Oregon’s disaster recovery efforts and how to be better prepared for disasters, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

On Monday, February 16^th, 2026 the Lincoln City Police Department K9 Nix was able to lend a paw to local Girl Scout Troop 10143 who are working on their Animal Helper’s Badge. K9 Nix, along with Curry of Guide Dogs for the Blind, demonstrated how animal partners can help keep people safe by relying on the connection between humans and animals.

K9 Nix continues to be a special part of our Department and local Community, which goes far beyond her abilities in tracking and apprehension. We are lucky to have her as an animal ambassador. It was only with assistance from financial contributions by the citizens of Lincoln City that we were able to launch our K9 Program in the first place and we continue to express our gratitude for their ongoing support!

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (19 February 2026) – On Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 12:56 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 167 in Lane County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Honda Odyssey, operated by Leyla Ann Ayers (24) of Cottage Grove, was traveling southbound on I-5 near Cottage Grove when it left the right shoulder of the roadway for unknown reasons. The vehicle struck the roadside embankment and overturned, ejecting the driver. The vehicle came to an uncontrolled stop, partially blocking the highway.

The operator (Ayers) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. On February 17, 2026, OSP was notified by hospital staff that Ayers had died from injuries sustained during the crash.

The highway remained open during the on-scene investigation.

Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

OSP was assisted by South Lane Fire and Rescue, Taylor’s Towing, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

UPDATE: Arrests made in road rage shooting incident. 

Oregon State Police have made two arrests related to a road rage shooting incident that occurred on June 27, 2025. On February 17, 2026, OSP detectives arrested Malachi Martinez-Sligar (22) of Salem on a warrant for the charges of Attempted Murder, Attempted Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Recklessly Endangering, and Reckless Driving.

On February 19, 2026, detectives arrested Aedyn Michael Williamson (18) of Philomath on an arrest warrant for the charges of Attempted Murder, Attempted Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Recklessly Endangering.
 

Both suspects were lodged at the Marion County Jail.

No additional information is available for release at this time. 

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (June 27, 2025) – At approximately 12:21 a.m. on June 27, 2025, Oregon State Police responded to a reported road rage incident on Interstate 5 southbound, between mileposts 265 and 263, in Marion County.

The incident involved a 2010 black Nissan Maxima and a sport utility vehicle resembling a 2008–2011 Dodge Journey, lighter in color, possibly gold or silver. Both vehicles were reportedly traveling in the far left and middle lanes at various points during the altercation.

During the altercation, the right-front passenger in the Dodge Journey discharged a firearm at the Nissan Maxima, striking the vehicle’s rear driver-side quarter panel multiple times. The shooter was reportedly wearing a ski mask. No injuries were reported.
 

The Dodge Journey was last seen exiting I-5 south at milepost 263 in an unknown direction.

There is not believed to be an ongoing threat to the public.  

OSP is asking for the public’s assistance in gathering information related to this case. If you have any information, please contact Detective Kelly Lorence through the Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-317802.

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About the Oregon State Police
The Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that safeguards Oregon’s people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws, investigates crimes, performs postmortem examinations and forensic analyses, conducts background checks, and manages law enforcement data. The agency also regulates gaming and enforces laws related to fish, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP includes more than 1,400 employees—troopers, investigators, and professional staff—delivering comprehensive public safety services to Oregon and supporting law enforcement partners statewide.

UPDATE 02/19/2026 3:15 PM

CANYONVILLE, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office has located Hannah Olsen in the Azalea area alive and unharmed. Her family has been notified. The Sheriff's Office would like to thank the community for their assistance in locating her. No further updates are expected. 

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ORIGINAL RELEASE 02/19/2026 12:40 PM

ROSEBURG, Ore. – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a missing person identified as 22-year-old Hannah Elizabeth Olsen of Canyonville.

Olsen, who also goes by the names “Quinn” or “Xavier,” was last seen on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m. at her residence in the area of NE Canyon Drive in Canyonville. She is believed to have left the residence on foot later that evening.

Olsen is described as a white female adult standing at 5’6” tall, weighing 140 lbs with dark blonde hair and brown eyes. She was last known to be wearing purple-framed glasses, dark blue and grey zip-up hooded sweatshirt, pink t-shirt, blue sweatpants. She was seen carrying a small black backpack-style purse and a custom white a blue wolf-print blanked with the name Hannah on it.

Family members report that Olsen is currently experiencing a mental health crisis and requires routine medication to manage medical conditions.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Hannah is urged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 440-4471 referencing case number 26-0538.

COOS COUNTY, Ore. (19 February 2026) – On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 6:09 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 223 in Coos County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Ford F-150 towing a flatbed trailer, operated by Matthew Rafael Gonzalez (30) of St. George, Utah, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 101 near Lakeside when it struck black ice. The operator lost control, struck the guardrail, crossed into the southbound lane, and collided with a tan Chevy Tracker operated by James Ervin Bramhall (64) of Lakeside. A blue Dodge 1500 pickup, operated by John Paul Burgmeier (24) of Coos Bay, then rear-ended the flatbed, also due to black ice on the roadway.

The operator of the Chevy Tracker (Bramhall) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford F-150 (Gonzalez) had reported minor injuries.

The operator of the Dodge 1500 (Burgmeier) was reportedly not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Lakeside Fire Department, Houser Fire Department, Winchester Bay Fire Department, Lower Umpqua Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 19, 2026

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for Scouting America

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman issued a proclamation on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Weekly Business Meeting calling upon all citizens of Douglas County to observe the month of February 2026 as Scouting America Month.  Scouting America, formerly known as Boy Scouts of America, was incorporated on February 8, 1910, in Washington, D.C, by Chicago newspaper publisher William D. Boyce, and for 116 years has focused on youth development by building character, citizenship and outdoor skills.  Since its inception in 1910, they have engaged more than 130 million youth and 35 million adult volunteers.  A copy of the video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment, as well as on Douglas County’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-565_6S9VE&t=818s.

The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Boice, on behalf of the Board and acknowledged, “Scouting America prepares youth to “Be Prepared for Life” - through values-based leadership training, personal development, and practical life skills that foster a pipeline of responsible, engaged citizens prepared to serve their communities.  Today, they have over one million youth members between the ages of 5 and 20 along with over 500,000 volunteers nationwide.” 

Commissioner Kress presented proclamation certificates to representatives, volunteers, and scouts from Scouting America’s Pacific Crest Council’s Doug Fir District right here in Douglas County, including Chris McCullough (Chairman Doug Fir District), Peter Sudduth (Executive Director Doug Fir District), Hannah McCullough (Oregon’s National Section Vice Chief/Eagle Scout/Troop 585), Troop 114, Katrina Rossbach (Committee Chair Troop 114/Pack 199), Scout Liam Rossbach; Troop 585, Scout Ana Lastra, Cub Scout Pack 199, Webelo Arthur Rossbach, Cub Scout Pack 697, Lion Ellie Hunt, Wolf Abraham Lastra, Bear Kieko Lastra, Troop 36, Scout Logan Standley, Gina Standley (Committee Chair Troop 36), and Lisa McCullough (Committee Chair Troop 585). 

“Commissioners thank you for having us.  Scouting is near and dear to my heart.  We moved to Douglas County 30 years ago when I was hired to be the professional supporter in the area,” stated Chris McCullough.  “Today I am Chairman of the Board and a Scout Master to a great group of scouts.  We are very excited to have a great year of scouting coming.  All of our scouts are going to summer camp and they are out there in the community doing great things.  As the proclamation mentioned, they log thousands of hours in community service projects each year in Douglas County.  We also have a handful of scouts working on their Eagle Scout Projects.  Most of scouting is intangible, you can’t touch it.  How do you measure character? How do you measure fitness?  But you can measure those little things that they have done like building bridges, trails, paths and the pounds of food they collect annually.  I’m proud to say that Scouting is still strong in Douglas County.”

After the presentation of certificates, Chris McCullough, Chairman of the Doug Fir District, Peter Sudduth, Executive Director of the Pacific Crest Council, Hannah McCullough and Katrina Rossbach were invited up to say a few words about Scouting America in Douglas County.  They thanked the Board of Commissioners for their support, encouragement, and recognition of Scouting America and the opportunities it provides for youth in our County.

“Doug Fir District has about 130 registered scouts and roughly the same number of volunteers.  Interestingly enough it takes just as many volunteers as scouts for scouting to survive and prosper.  We consider Scouting a family event from cub scout to eagle scout and beyond.  It takes a family to do this right.  A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent. What else do children emulate to be the best they can be?  That is what scouting does. Thank you for Commissioners for this proclamation,” stated Peter Sudduth. 

Douglas County Commissioners proclaimed the month of February 2026 as Scouting America Month in Douglas County and encouraged all our citizens to observe this month by learning about and supporting local Scouting America’s programs.  According to their website, “Scouting invites every youth to a safe, fun place to learn, explore, and grow.”  To learn more about the Scouting America log onto their website: https://www.scouting.org/.

“I love having you Scouts here.  I went through scouting when I was a kid.  My Mom was a Den leader for a bunch of us, and I noticed that the uniforms haven’t changed much since I was a kid.  It’s great to see you and I’m glad you are all involved,” commented Commissioner Chris Boice. 

“Thank you all.  I participated in the Scouts program when I was young.  Great program.  I am glad it’s still very active and your ability to volunteer and help youth is amazing.  I appreciate you all being here,” remarked Commissioner Tim Freeman. 

“It’s definitely an honor for us to have you folks here.  Any of you that aspire to be an Eagle Scout, I know that is quite the effort and commitment from not only the scout but for the family as well.  My son became an Eagle Scout, and I commend all those that are or have gone through the program.” - Commissioner Tom Kress.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Email: a.howell@douglascountupr.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountupr.gov

Assets Attached.  Photo: ©T.Howell/Douglas County.  Photos Available Upon Request

Editors: OHA and OHSU medical experts will hold a media briefing at 11 a.m. today to give an update on measles in Oregon and a new measles data tracking tool. Reporters can join via Zoom at this link; a livestream for the public is available via YouTube at this link. The YouTube livestream will be recorded and can be viewed later. 

February 19, 2026  

Media Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov 

Oregon reports measles outbreak; new wastewater dashboard tracks measles virus by county

With revolving balances topping $1.28 trillion, credit union shares practical guidance to use credit as a tool — not a trap

PORTLAND, Ore. – New data shows U.S. credit card debt has climbed to nearly $1.28 trillion, placing household revolving balances near record highs. As interest rates remain elevated, how consumers use credit matters more than ever.

“Credit itself isn’t the problem; it’s how it’s used,” says Meredith Bureau, Hillsdale branch manager at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Good credit can support long-term goals and financial stability, while high-interest, revolving debt can undermine progress if it’s left unchecked.”

With the latest statistics from the Federal Reserve and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York showing American consumers have amassed about $1.28 trillion in revolving credit card balances, OnPoint encourages consumers in Oregon and southwest Washington to ask whether credit use is helping or hurting their financial health. OnPoint offers the following guidance to help navigate today’s credit landscape:

1. Understand the difference between good and bad credit. Good credit is typically tied to long-term goals such as education, a home or reliable transportation. It is managed with a clear repayment plan. Bad credit often shows up as high-interest, revolving balances that grow over time and strain monthly budgets.
2. Pay attention to interest rates, not just balances. With credit card rates remaining high, even modest balances can generate significant interest costs. Paying off higher-rate debt first can lead to faster savings.
3. Watch for warning signs. Relying on credit cards for everyday essentials, carrying balances near credit limits, or making only minimum payments can signal that credit is becoming a liability rather than a tool.
4. Create a payoff strategy. Listing balances, interest rates and due dates helps bring clarity. Focusing on the highest-interest balance first or setting up automatic payments can reduce stress and prevent late fees.
5. Consider consolidation — carefully. Options like personal loans or balance transfers can make sense as long as they have a clear plan and timeline to pay down debt, rather than simply extending it.
6. Use trusted financial guidance. Credit unions often provide personalized counseling, budgeting tools and member-focused products designed to help people manage credit responsibly and build stronger financial footing. OnPoint members can also access personalized financial counseling through the credit union’s GreenPath Financial Wellness partnership.​

“Credit should work for you, not against you,” Bureau adds. “Small, intentional steps, especially now, can make a meaningful difference in both credit scores and peace of mind. And OnPoint is here to support our members as they achieve their financial goals.”

MOVE OVER. IT’S THE LAW     
 

Every day, first responders take on personal risk to serve our communities and save lives. Even a routine traffic stop has become risky. The following information comes from the Oregon Department of Transportation (www.oregon.gov/ODOT) and can help keep first responders and commuters safer.

There have been many cases where officers are pulled over on the side of the road when drivers have then crashed into them at high speeds. That’s why there’s a strict law in Oregon designed to help prevent these situations from happening again.

The Move Over Law (ORS 811.147) states that if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated, you must:

• MOVE OVER into another available lane.
• If you can’t safely change lanes, SLOW DOWN to a speed that is at least 5 mph below the posted or designated speed of the roadway.
• In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle.

The Move Over Law is in place to help protect law enforcement officers, emergency workers, tow operators and those who routinely provide assistance to motorists along the highways. This group of dedicated professionals face a deadly threat on a daily basis: speeding and inattentive drivers. But the law also exists to protect you. The flashing lights are your cue to move over and slow down.

If you are approaching the scene of a crash, carefully watch for emergency workers directing traffic and follow all of their instructions.

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

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ROSEBURG, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office has continued its investigation into reported injuries to students in the Developmental Learning Center at Fremont Middle School.
 

During the course of the ongoing investigation, deputies reviewed additional evidence and conducted further interviews. Through that process, investigators developed information indicating that a teacher, 35-year-old Nathan Terrance Williams of Roseburg, initiated unwanted and offensive physical contact with several students in the Developmental Learning Center program between January 28, 2026, and February 6, 2026.
 

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Deputies contacted Williams regarding the investigation. Williams was ultimately taken into custody and transported to the Douglas County Jail, where he was lodged on six (6) counts of Official Misconduct in the First Degree and (6) six counts of Harassment.
 

The Sheriff’s Office has worked closely with school district administrators since the initial report, and the district has been cooperative and responsive throughout the investigation. That partnership remains ongoing as both entities continue to prioritize student safety and the well-being of those impacted by the investigation.
 

Anyone who believes to have information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office at 541-440-4471 referencing case #26-0476.

TODAY: Virtual media briefing on measles in Oregon