The latest news stories of interest in the Rogue Valley and the state of Oregon from the digital home of Southern Oregon, Wynne Broadcasting’s RogueValleyMagazine.com
Friday, October 25, 2024
Rogue Valley Weather
Seasonal Climate Forecast October – December 2024
https://www.oregon.gov/oda/programs/naturalresources/documents/weather/dlongrange.pdf
A La Niña winter is coming. Here’s what that could mean for the US
Ashland Bats Vie for ‘World Record’ in BLM’s Bat Beauty Contest
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!
Another Woman Missing in Prospect Area
Sheriff’s Deputies, Search & Rescue Attempting to Locate Missing Woman Last Seen in Prospect Area
JCSO Case 24-5775 —
PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies along with Search and Rescue (SAR) are attempting to locate a woman missing out of Prospect since early Sunday morning, October 20. April Larson is described as a 41-year-old white woman, 5’6” tall, weighing 120 lbs. She has purple and blue dyed hair with brown eyes.
April was last seen around 1:00 AM going for a walk in the 1st Street area of Prospect. She had a flashlight and is believed to be wearing dark clothing and blue shoes. April was with a friend visiting the area. It is believed that she does not know anyone in the area.
If you have any information on April’s whereabouts, call @Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon ECSO 911 dispatch at (541)776-7206 and reference case 24-5775.
Sheriff’s Office issues advisory about motorhome and possible link to missing Prospect woman
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) is asking for help identifying the owner a motorhome. It could be associated with a missing person from the Prospect area.
JCSO says 68-year-old Deenah Padgett has been missing since August 30 from Prospect, described as a white woman, 4’ 8” tall, weighing approximately 95 pounds with brownish red/greying hair.
JCSO issued an advisory this weekend asking anyone with information about the owner of the pictured motor home or Padgett’s whereabouts to call Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) dispatch non-emergency phone number at 541-776-7206.
Medford Police Report:
𝗣𝗲𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗷𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗩𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻
Forest Service officials are seeking information about the person or group that have been placing homemade spike strips and other dangerous traps across roads and trails in remote southwest Oregon.
The federal agency said that in addition to spike strips, meant to puncture tires, there have also been wires across roads and trails reported in the Taylor Creek and Shan Creek areas of Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.
“Reports have stated that the boards that hold the spikes have been covered with leaves, so it may be difficult to see them,” a Facebook post from the national forest said on Monday.
Some on social media indicated the issue has been an ongoing problem.
The traps have been reported by “hunting and mining interests,” the post said. However, the Taylor Creek area, located west of Grants Pass, has other recreation including hiking, mountain biking and camping.
The post asked anyone that saw anything taking place to contact the Grants Pass Interagency Office at 541-471-6500 or the Wild Rivers Ranger District at 541-592-4000.
Josephine County Sheriff’s Office –
Zuberi Defense Lawyer Says He’ll Appeal Federal Kidnap, Sex and Weapons Convictions
he lead defense lawyer for a Klamath Falls man now convicted of federal kidnapping, sex and weapons charges says his client Negasi Zuberi is appealing his conviction.
Medford lawyer Michael Bertholf states they are appealing Friday’s jury verdicts of “guilty” for convictions on seven federal criminal counts. The attorney said, “There were some pretrial issues that we litigated, and they need to be appealed and have the Ninth Circuit decide if Judge McShane made appropriate rulings.”
Chief U.S. District Court Judge Michael McShane presided over 30-year-old Zuberi’s two week federal court trial in Medford as Zuberi and his defense counsel challenged accusations that Zuberi impersonated police when he kidnapped two women in 2023 on separate occasions and raped them, using a taser, handcuffs, leg irons and a gun, bringing federal kidnapping, sex, weapon and ammunition charges.
“This case was an exceptionally complex case. It was a very emotional case, emotionally charged, very emotional, and very complex. And still not done.”
Bertholf says he’s working on a sentencing memo for Judge McShane’s pre-sentencing report, “That’s what we’ll be presenting at the sentencing, Mr. Zuberi’s life story.” He says Zuberi will stay at the Jackson County jail until sentencing January 16, 2025, when he faces life imprisonment for his kidnapping convictions.
“His conditions right now are standard jail conditions. He’s in the general population, so he’s not in isolation,” said Bertholf. “He is as confined and as free as any general population inmate at the Jackson County Jail, which is, they don’t have a lot of freedom.”
Zuberi’s defense attorney also said, “The government has not indicated whether or not they intend to file any other charges, and I’m currently unaware of any secretly filed charges.” When the Federal Bureau of Investigation announced Zuberi’s arrest in July 2023, it thought he might have other victims in perhaps four other states.
Bertholf says Zuberi has two pending criminal charges, with one in Klamath County Circuit Court for a state-level charge for AV2’s charged abduction and a federal escape charge as a separate federal case now after it had been part of Zuberi’s kidnapping case indictment. That charge became a federal count after the Jackson County District Attorney had filed a state-level attempted escape charge against Zuberi for an incident at the Jackson County Jail, then dismissed it. Jackson County Jail is holding Zuberi in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Jury Convicts Klamath Falls Man Who Kidnapped and Sexually Assaulted Two Women and Held One in Cell
MEDFORD, Ore.— A federal jury found a Klamath Falls, Oregon man guilty after he kidnapped and sexually assaulted two women, and held one in a cell he constructed in his garage.
Negasi Zuberi, 30, also known as Justin Joshua Hyche, was found guilty of kidnapping, transporting a victim for criminal sexual activity, and illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
According to court documents, on July 15, 2023, while in Seattle, Zuberi posed as a police officer and used a taser and handcuffs to detain his victim in the backseat of his vehicle. Zuberi then transported the victim approximately 450 miles to his home in Klamath Falls, stopping along the way to sexually assault her.
When Zuberi arrived at his residence, he moved the victim from his vehicle into a cell he had constructed in his garage.The woman repeatedly banged on the cell door until it broke open and she escaped. The victim retrieved a handgun from Zuberi’s vehicle, fled his garage, and flagged down a passing motorist who called 911.
The next day, on July 16, 2023, Reno Police Department officers and Nevada State Patrol officers located Zuberi in a parking lot in Reno, Nevada. After a short standoff, Zuberi surrendered to law enforcement and was taken into custody.
While investigating Zuberi’s crimes, federal agents discovered that approximately six weeks prior to the kidnapping in Seattle, on May 6, 2023, Zuberi kidnapped and sexually assaulted another victim. While being held by Zuberi, his first victim observed stacked cinder blocks in his garage that he later used to construct the cell where he detained his second victim.
On August 2, 2023, a federal grand jury in Medford returned an indictment charging Zuberi with kidnapping and transporting a victim with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Later, on February 15, 2024, a second kidnapping charge and charges for illegallypossessing firearms and ammunitionand attempted escape were added by superseding indictment.
Kidnapping is punishable by up to life in federal prison and transporting a victim across state lines with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity by up to 10 years. Illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and attempted escape are punishable by up to 15 years.
This case was investigated by the FBI Portland Field Office, Klamath Falls Police Department, and Oregon State Police with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada;Klamath County District Attorney’s Office; Reno, Nevada Police Department; Washoe County,Nevada District Attorney’s Office; and Nevada State Police. It was prosecuted by Jeffrey S. Sweet, Marco A. Boccato, and Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, with assistance from Appellate Chief Suzanne Miles, also of the District of Oregon.
Ballots in the Mail and Voting Underway
- Regular mail. Ballots must be postmarked no later than November 5, 2024 and received no later than November 12, 2024 to be counted.
- A 24/7 ballot drop box by 8:00 p.m. on November 5, 2024.
Join us for a spooktacular Trunk or Treat event at Wild River Medford on Sunday, October 27th, from 2 PM to 5 PM!
Did you get help from FEMA, insurance, or others after the 2020 Almeda and South Obenchain Fires?
https://firebrandcollective.org/harp/
Many pets have benefited from the community’s generosity, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness.Hearts with a Mission, a program to help local seniors who need assistance, is seeking volunteers.
David Grubbs’ Murder Investigation Remains Active
The Ashland Police Department’s investigation into the murder of David Grubbs on November 19, 2011 remains open and active. Recently two new detectives have been assigned to look into new leads that have come in.
It has been more than Four Years since Fauna Frey, 45, disappeared in Oregon on a road trip, June 29, 2020, following her brother’s death
PART 2 – Newsweek Podcast Focusing on The Disappearance of Fauna Frey From Lane County
Here One Minute, Gone the Next —– PART 2 – Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel joins investigative journalist Alex Rogue to speak with Here One Minute, Gone the Next about the disappearance of Fauna Frey, the growing friction between citizen investigators and law enforcement, and the lack of resources in missing persons cases. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-disappearance-of-fauna-frey-pt2-feat-sheriff/id1707094441?i=1000630100040 PART 1 – John Frey joins Newsweek to discuss exclusive details about the case of his missing daughter that until now have been unavailable to the general public. READ MORE HERE: https://www.newsweek.com/exclusive-what-happened-fauna-frey-new-clues-uncovered-1827197?fbclid=IwAR3Z3Glru5lIgqiYXbs_nA1Fj8JuCIzM11OHSVHfwIucfq2f_G5y9y5bnmQ If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fauna Frey, call the anonymous tip line at 541-539-5638 or email FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com. —- Help Find Fauna Frey #FindFaunaFrey FACEBOOK GROUP
Celebrate Fire Safety this October
– As the leaves change and cooler weather sets in, the Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Oregon fire service remind everyone of the importance of home fire safety. October is Fire Prevention Month, a time to focus on fire prevention and safety at home. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Fire Safety,” calls on Oregonians to take action to reduce fire risks and protect their loved ones.
In 2023, 2,518 home fires in our state resulted in $119.5 million in losses to homeowners. Cooking remains the leading cause of home fires, followed closely by home heating. Alarmingly, in 417 of those fires, no smoke alarm was present.
“Oregon’s first responders are unwavering in their commitment to protecting our communities by reducing home fires and preventing the devastating injuries they cause,” said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “This Fire Prevention Month, we’re calling on all Oregonians to take proactive, life-saving steps to protect their families, their homes, and their future.”
There are several simple things Oregonians can do to lessen the chance of a home fire and increase safety:
- Install and maintain smoke alarms. Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
- Practice cooking safely. Never leave cooking unattended and always have a lid or cookie sheet nearby to smother small flames.
- Use heating equipment safely. Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating devices and always plug space heaters directly into the wall—never use extension cords.
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan. Make sure every family member knows at least two ways out of every room.
- Consider candle alternatives. Battery-operated candles reduce fire risk, but if you use real candles, always blow them out before leaving the room.
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month. For more information about Fire Prevention Month, a link to the proclamation, and more tips to prevent the top causes of home fires in Oregon, visit our website.
McDonald’s Food Poisoning Outbreak Linked To Onions
E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
— New as of 10/25: More illnesses have been reported and everyone interviewed continues to report eating at McDonald’s before their illness started. The most recent illness started on October 10. Taylor Farms has initiated a voluntary recall of some onions sent to food service operators. Due to the product actions taken by both companies, CDC believes the risk to the public is very low.
The outbreak began between September 27 and October 11 and has affected people in Oregon, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Colorado reported the most cases at 26, followed by Nebraska with nine.
CDC, FDA, USDA FSIS, and public health officials in multiple states are investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections. Most people in this outbreak are reporting eating the Quarter Pounder hamburger at McDonald’s before becoming sick. It is not yet known which specific food ingredient is contaminated.
McDonald’s is collaborating with investigation partners to determine what food ingredient in Quarter Pounders is making people sick. McDonald’s stopped using fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties in several states while the investigation is ongoing to identify the ingredient causing illness.
Taylor Farms, the supplier of slivered onions to the affected McDonald’s locations, has initiated a voluntary recall and has asked customers to stop using some onions while this investigation is ongoing. Food service customers were contacted directly and told to remove onions.
McDonald’s shares fell by 9% in after-hours trading after the E. coli food poisoning outbreak was announced by the CDC.
Investigators found that everyone who became ill had eaten at McDonald’s before feeling unwell, with most of them mentioning that they ate Quarter Pounder hamburgers. Health officials from the CDC, U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and several states are still investigating the outbreak.
The actual number of people affected is probably much higher, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and may not be limited to the 10 states with known illnesses.
It usually takes three to four weeks after eating an E. coli-infected food for symptoms to manifest. For this reason, the CDC says the outbreak could have infected more people, while other cases go undocumented as people can recover without the need for medical attention.
Investigations now reveal that slivered onion in fresh McDonald’s quarter pounders could have caused the outbreak in which one elderly person from Colorado died, and 10 others from other states were hospitalized.
While the exact cause is still unknown, officials are focusing on two possible culprits: onions and fresh beef. The FDA suspects that slivered onions used on the burgers may be the source of contamination, while the USDA is looking into the hamburger patties as a potential cause.
McDonald’s has responded by halting the distribution of slivered onions from a specific supplier. The company has also removed the Quarter Pounder from menus in the affected states and parts of Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, as a precaution.
- coli is a type of bacteria found in the guts of animals and the environment. It can cause severe symptoms, including fever, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhea. People experiencing these symptoms after eating a McDonald’s should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about their recent meals.
- coli infections are especially dangerous for children under 5 years old, as they can lead to acute kidney failure.
More INFO — https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/investigation-update-e-coli-o157-2024.html
17 People Indicted for Conspiring to Steal More Than $2.4 Million in SNAP Benefits
—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.
Wilsonville Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Laundering More Than $4.6 Million in Drug Proceeds
—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.
Retail Employee Facing Charges for Theft of Winning Oregon Lottery Ticket
– 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.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs to Host Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at Oregon State Capitol Park
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.
Lincoln County Multi-Agency Crash Team Investigates Traffic Fatality
On October 22nd, 2024, at approximately 1:55 PM, a Lincoln City Police Department Officer observed a female lying in the street next to an electric bicycle at the intersection of SE 9th St and Highway 101. The Officer began to render assistance as 911 calls about the incident were being received. North Lincoln Fire & Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance personnel also responded; however, 47-year-old Danielle Wolff of Lincoln City ultimately succumbed to her injuries and passed at the scene.
An initial investigation determined that Wolff had been driving her electric bike southbound on the sidewalk on the east side of the Highway. She applied her brakes abruptly as she came upon a stopped vehicle at the intersection of SE 9th St and ended up falling into the roadway. The driver of the stopped vehicle commenced a right-hand turn without seeing Wolff on the pavement, striking her, but then immediately pulled to the side of the road and called 911 to summon assistance. The driver has fully cooperated with the investigation of the incident.
During the scene investigation, traffic was diverted down to two lanes for approximately four hours, while members of the Lincoln County Multi-Agency Crash Team, representing each of the law enforcement agencies in the County, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation, assisted with the investigation, which is currently on-going. No charges have been filed at this time.
Unfortunately, Wolff was not wearing a helmet at the time of the incident. This tragedy emphasizes the need for protective gear while cycling. Oregon’s cycling laws allow us to share our roads safely. Cyclists are required by law to use bicycle lanes when present and electric bicycles are specifically prohibited on Oregon’s sidewalks. In the limited locations where cyclists share a sidewalk with pedestrians, they may do so at a speed no greater than an ordinary walk when approaching crosswalks. Lastly, although Oregon’s laws do not require the use of a helmet for riders aged 16 and above, we strongly recommend the use of a DOT helmet for cyclists.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms. Wolff, and encourage all members of our community to observe Oregon’s Traffic Safety laws during their daily commutes.
BLM lifts some fire restrictions in northwest Oregon
– With recent cooler, wetter weather reducing fire danger levels, the Bureau of Land Management has lifted restrictions on certain activities on open BLM land in northwest Oregon. This change means that activities such as campfires, smoking, cross-country vehicle travel in designated areas, and the use of chainsaws will now be permitted.
However, a larger ban on incendiary devices—fireworks, exploding targets, and incendiary ammunition—remains in effect. This regional order is in place across the states of Oregon and Washington to ensure the continued safety of our public lands and neighboring communities due to the inherent fire risks associated these devises. This measure is crucial for preventing accidental fires and protecting the environment, wildlife, and the safety of individuals enjoying outdoor recreation.
Additionally, some BLM land in the region remains closed following this season’s wildfires. For example, all BLM public lands within the Lane One fire boundary are still off limits.
“I encourage everyone to stay informed and exercise caution while enjoying the changing seasons,” said Adam Johnson, fire management specialist with the BLM Northwest Oregon District. “Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to keep our public lands safe for everyone.”
For the complete order and more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.
To learn more about fire careers with BLM Oregon-Washington, please see https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/state-info/oregon-washington/careers.
Since the outdoor burning restrictions were lifted in many Oregon counties – New Fire 
starts are daily due to outdoor burning piles causing grass fires.
Please use caution 
85% of all wildfires are human caused. Oregon still has over 70 fires and for most counties the fire season is not over yet.
Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.
Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily
https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/state/oregon
Large Fires in Oregon Past 2 Weeks 10/25/24 8:00am per INCIWEB
| Incident | Type | State | Incident Size | UpdatedSort ascending |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rail Ridge – OROCF | Wildfire | Oregon | 176619 Acres | 52 minutes 41 seconds ago |
| Bachelor Complex Fires – ORDEF | Wildfire | Oregon | 15525 Acres | 19 hours 50 minutes ago |
| Red Fire – ORDEF | Wildfire | Oregon | 3060 Acres | 3 days 20 hours ago |
| Tiger Creek Fire – ORUMF | Wildfire | Oregon | 534 Acres | 3 days 23 hours ago |
| Bingham Fire – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 199 Acres | 1 week 2 days ago |
| Willamette Complex Fires – South – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 31296 Acres | 1 week 3 days ago |
| Homestead Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 11073 Acres | 2 weeks 1 day ago |
| Diamond Complex – ORUPF | Wildfire | Oregon | 11141 Acres | 2 weeks 1 day ago |
| Lane 1 Fire – OR77S | Wildfire | Oregon | 25952 Acres | 2 weeks 1 day ago |
| North Willamette Complex – ORWIF | Wildfire | Oregon | 5492 Acres | 2 weeks 2 days ago |
https://app.watchduty.org/
Please Help Prevent Wildfires! In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page.
OSP K-9 team seizes fentanyl and heroin – Douglas County
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.
Detectives Investigate Fatal Shooting in Scottsburg
– Detectives are investigating a fatal shooting incident that occurred on Monday in Scottsburg.
On Monday, October 21, 2024, at approximately 12:00 pm, deputies were responding to a reported criminal mischief and assault in the 5000 block of Lutsinger Creek Road.
While deputies were responding, 9-1-1 dispatchers received additional calls from the residents in the area reporting the incident was escalating and reports of gunshots heard.
When deputies arrived, they located 58-year-old Darrel Dow Dodd unconscious with apparent gunshot wounds. Deputies attempted lifesaving efforts, which were unsuccessful.
Detectives with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene.
Through the investigation, it was learned that Dodd was armed with a weapon, had broken into a residence and began assaulting and strangling a female known to him while threatening to stab her. Another individual attempted to intervene, but Dodd continued his attack. Dodd was shot twice by a third individual.
Detectives are currently investigating the incident as a case of justified defense of another person, based upon the evidence and circumstances of the incident, although the investigation is ongoing. Once the investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Nationwide Shortage of IV Fluids Forces Oregon Health and Science University to Postpone Surgeries
Hurricane Helene knocked an IV factory offline, forcing the Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) to postpone 108 surgeries last week.
The nationwide shortage of IV fluid is expected to continue for another four to six weeks, according to the OHSU Interim CEO, John Ness.
The Baxter International factory in North Carolina produces about 50 percent of the IV fluids used in hospitals around the country.
At a public meeting on Friday, Ness said the OHSU relies on Baxter for its IV fluids, making it one of the most vulnerable hospitals in Oregon. Other healthcare organizations, like Kaiser and Legacy Health, obtain IV fluids from a different supplier.
Dextrose, electrolytes and saline are in short supply and are the most used fluids given to patients during surgery, in intensive care, or when receiving treatment in emergency wards.
Ness told the public meeting that the next four to six weeks would be challenging, while Sara Hottman, a spokesperson for the OHSU, said about 25 percent of non-urgent surgical procedures would have to be rescheduled.
Operations placed on hold include bariatric surgeries, and hernia and joint repairs. The OHSU will communicate directly with affected patients.
Meanwhile, Baxter is using a rationing system to distribute its remaining stock of IV fluids to its customer-base. The company managed to salvage 450 truckloads of IV fluids from warehouses and its flooded North Carolina factory.
Legacy Health has supplied the OHSU with some fluids and confirmed that it would continue to help health partners wherever possible. Legacy said it keeps a backup supply of IV fluids for emergencies.
The federal government has also come to the rescue. It has relaxed some of its production regulations and is working alongside Baxter to airlift IV solutions from various production factories overseas.
Groundbreaking Dedication Event for Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Oregon State Capitol- Friday, November 22, 2024 | 2:00 p.m.
The Oregon State Capitol will be the site of the highly anticipated dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Friday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. This momentous event will be the formal dedication of Phase 1 of the memorial, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s Vietnam veterans. The public ceremony will occur at Salem’s Willson Park memorial site on the Capitol grounds, at the corner of State and Cottage Street, with a reception to follow at the nearby Withnell Family YMCA.
The memorial pays tribute to 710 Oregonians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, along with the more than 180,000 Oregonians who served in Vietnam and around the world from 1955-1975. The design features 46 black granite columns engraved with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It creates a reflective space for veterans, families, and the public to honor their memory.
The event will include comments from local veterans, state officials, and Vietnam War Memorial Fund members, who have been instrumental in making this project a reality. The event is hosted by the Oregon Vietnam War Memorial Fund and is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.
The Importance of the Memorial – The Vietnam War remains one of the most challenging and divisive periods in American history. Veterans returning from the conflict were often met with indifference or hostility, making this memorial an overdue recognition of their service. The memorial offers a space for healing and remembrance, honoring both the sacrifices of the fallen and the resilience of those who served. Steve Bates, President and co-founder of the Vietnam War Memorial Fund (VWMF), emphasized the emotional impact of this project. “This is about giving our veterans a place of rest and, for all of us, a place to heal,” Bates said. The memorial will not only commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans but also serve as a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the state and its people.
Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the memorial will also serve as an educational resource when Phase 2 is completed. Phase 2, the Exhibit Phase, aims to help future generations understand the human cost of war and the bravery of those who fought.
For more information, see a virtual tour or donate, visit ocvvm.com.
About the VWMF: Vietnam War Memorial Fund’s website at www.ocvvm.com. The Vietnam War Memorial Fund is a recognized 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent of applicable tax law. You can donate by sending a check to the Vietnam War Memorial Fund – P O Box 1448 – Boring, Oregon 97009 or by credit card at www.ocvvm.com.
Oregon Cannabis Testing Labs Face Shutdown
Three Oregon laboratories who certify the potency of marijuana before it lands in consumers’ pipes and bongs are under investigation for allegedly doctoring tests to show a stronger high.
That’s according to the Portland Business Journal, which first reported Wednesday that Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission regulators have taken the first step to shut down all three labs, which represent about a quarter of such facilities in the state.
Oregon requires pot to be tested for safe levels of pesticides, toxins and heavy metals before sale, but growers often focus on Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC, because higher levels trigger heightened effects in the user (and fetch a greater sale price).
The state commission has put labs under the microscope after learning that testers were sprinkling “kief,” essentially high-potency cannabis dust, on top of samples in order to boost their scores, according to the Business Journal.
Name Our K-9 Contest – OSP launches youth contest to name our new K-9
– There’s a new furry recruit at Oregon State Police. She’s excited to join her handler on Oregon’s highways, and we need your help to give her an official name that is paw-some!
Oregon youth, kindergarten through 5th grade, send in your ulti-mutt name for our fur-ever friend. The winning entry will be recognized with a round of a-paws and other fun prizes.
Contest Rules:
- Complete an entry form between Oct. 17-27, 2024.
- The contest is open to Oregon youth from kindergarten through 5th grade.
- One entry per student.
- Five names from the submitted entries will be selected to move forward for statewide voting.
- The student with the winning name entry will get to meet the K-9 and other recognition from OSP.
- The school with the most participants will also be recognized by OSP.
Who’s ready fur some treats! Learn more about our new K-9: https://youtu.be/3naO1tVKz2M
The K-9 is a two-year-old female Belgian Malinois from Blackwood Canine who is certified through the Oregon Police K-9 Association as a drug detection dog. She and her handler, Sr. Trooper Scott Show, are assigned to the Albany Patrol Office for drug detection along Interstate 5 and throughout the state.
Sr. Trooper Show said, “I’m excited to have Oregon youth involved in naming our K-9. Kids come up with the best animal names and I’ll be happy with whatever they choose.”
The contest opens at noon on Oct. 17, 2024, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2024. Entries must be received via OSP’s online entry form: https://bit.ly/OSP_K9Contest.
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