March 25, 2025  

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-246-9139, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov  

New OHA data show progress in fighting health care-associated infections in Oregon hospitals

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon hospitals recorded a slight decrease in health care-associated infections (HAIs) among hospitalized patients in 2023 and met federally established reduction goals in various infection categories, according to newly published Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data.

The new data, published by the Healthcare-Associated Infections Program within  OHA’s Public Health Division, showed some improvement in reducing infections acquired in hospitals between 2022 and 2023; however, more work needs to be done to reach national reduction targets across all categories.

Among the largest reductions were seen in catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) and Clostridioides difficile infections (CDI) in hospitals, which met federal reduction standards for acute care hospitals in 2023.

Oregon acute care hospitals also showed progress with central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections (MRSA BSI).

Oregon critical access hospitals did show a large increase in CLABSI’s and a moderate increase in MRSA BSIs. The large increase in CLABSI’s is attributed to four separate critical access hospitals reporting events in 2023, compared to just one in 2022.

“While progress has been identified in some areas, data show that patients in Oregon are still acquiring HAIs in greater numbers than the national average for many types of infections,” said Dat Tran, M.D., HAI Program medical director. “We remain committed to supporting health care facilities in Oregon to enhance infection control and prevent HAIs.”

The dashboard contains HAI data for 61 individual hospitals in Oregon. It provides statewide summaries and facility-specific data of Oregon hospital performance on nine HAI metrics, with comparable national benchmarks.

OHA works to prevent infections because of the significant risk to patient safety. On a given day, one in every 31 patients in U.S. hospitals will get an infection in a hospital or health care setting.

In 2023, Oregon hospitals reported 975 such injuries.

OHA monitors state and regional trends and supports statewide efforts to reduce HAIs by:

• Conducting studies to assess and understand current trends.
• Providing one-on-one infection control technical assistance to statewide health care facilities to support them in meeting targets.
• Collaborating with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to offer direct-to-provider infection control education to ensure all health care staff have the tools to prevent health care-associated infections.

Health care providers work diligently to control these infections in the interest of patient safety.

There also are infection prevention strategies that families, friends and the public visiting these settings can follow. Visitors to health care settings should frequently wash their hands, look for worsening signs and symptoms of infection, and notify providers of these signs and symptoms.

Visitors should follow facility infection prevention policies and procedures. Most importantly, visitors should avoid visiting a facility if they are sick. 

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024–2027 Strategic Plan.  

 Learn more about how OHA is working to foster health families and communities on our website.  

Click here to learn more about OHA’s HAI program, the impacts of infection and prevention steps. 

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SALEM, Oregon – Oregon Heritage just released the 2024 Oregon Main Street Annual report. A copy of the report can be found on the Oregon Main Street website: www.oregonmainstreet.org.
 

The report highlights the collective impact of communities participating in the Main Street Track of the Oregon Main Street Network in 2024, including over $24 million in private sector investment, 168 net new businesses, 1,652 net new jobs, and over 293 building rehab projects. In addition, volunteers contributed almost 34,000 of volunteer hours to make their communities better places to live, work, shop, and experience. The cumulative impact since 2010 is also included in the report.
 

The report also features community spotlights on projects and activities happening on Main Street in Oregon including the HRVI building restoration project in Chiloquin which was a recipient of a $200,000 Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant in 2022 and is nearing completion.
 

Currently, there are over 100 communities in Oregon participating in one of the different levels of the Oregon Main Street Network: Accredited Main Street, Designated Main Street, Affiliated Main Street, Connected Communities, or as part of one of the Rural Regional Main Street hubs. There isn’t a fee to participate in the Oregon Main Street Network.
 

Oregon Main Street (OMS) is part of Heritage Programs in Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. OMS is designed to assist with the revitalization of historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts, promote economic development, and encourage historic preservation. The program uses an approach that advocates a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of central business districts based on their assets, unique architecture, personal service, local ownership and entrepreneurship, and sense of community. 

If you plan on heading to local waterways this spring break, be prepared for lots of floating debris, very swift currents due to high water, and very cold water temperatures. The Marine Board urges boaters to select a waterway that matches their skill levels, so they don’t wind up getting in over their heads.
 

“Inexperience and not being prepared for the conditions are factors leading to accidents. Planning ahead, boating with others, always keeping a sharp lookout, and wearing a properly fitted life jacket for your boating activity are key,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “The Marine Board has a lot of planning resources on our website to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways,” adds Paulsen.

The Oregon State Marine Board advises boaters to plan ahead and check out the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps and local rules for boat operations. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions, and have the right gear for your boating activity. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat. 

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters:

• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters in Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.    
• In Oregon, all boaters must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating a powerboat greater than 10 horsepower. Paddlers of non-motorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course in both English and Spanish for boaters new to the activity.

For more information about safe boating in Oregon, visit Boat.Oregon.gov.

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SALEM, Ore. – Over the weekend, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) filled an order to send 26 firefighters and two agency representatives to North Carolina to assist in fighting numerous wildfires in the state. Many of the firefighters arrived in the state yesterday, March 23, and are assigned to the Black Cove incident in western North Carolina.

The two-week rotation with our North Carolina partners is our chance to return the favor. In 2024, North Carolina sent almost a whole incident management team along with several overhead positions in support of Oregon. The added capacity allowed some resource flexibility to ODF in a time when people and equipment were limited.

“Being able to have an additional incident management team (IMT) made it so we did not have to make the hard choice of prioritizing one fire over another,” said Blake Ellis, Fire Operations Manager. “At the time, we had two fires in need of an IMT and only one ODF team available. We were able to fill both incidents’ needs due to the extra support from our North Carolina partners.”

The firefighters were sent to North Carolina under mutual assistance agreements between the two states. When wildfire activity is low in Oregon, firefighters can be spared to help in places experiencing high levels of wildfire.

Oregon can and has called on its out-of-state partners to send resources when wildfire here exceeded our local and state capacity, most recently in 2024 when ODF received firefighters and equipment from about 21 states, provinces and territories.

“These agreements help bolster the complete and coordinated fire protection system and create a cache of reciprocal resources for all of us to call on when needed,” Michael Curran, ODF’s Fire Protection Division Chief, said.

So why does Oregon send resources to help other states? Through these mutual assistance agreements with other states, including Alaska, Hawaii and NW Canadian territories, we can share resources with one another, creating a larger, faster comprehensive fire management system.   

“Know that we don’t share these resources without appropriate vetting. Before committing to any out-of-state deployment, we make sure that our own fire management system is still adequately staffed and ready to respond to fires here in Oregon. Serving Oregonians is our first and primary priority,” said Curran.

Low-income Harney County taxpayers eligible to claim valuable federal and state tax credits can get assistance filing their tax returns when Oregon Department of Revenue volunteers visit Burns April 2.

Help using the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to file electronically for free will be available at the Harney County Library, located at 80 West D Street in Burns, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., April 2.

According to IRS and state statistics, the federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit were claimed on more than 17 percent of returns in Harney County for tax year 2022. It’s likely, however, that more area families could claim the credits. The IRS estimates that, overall, 25 percent of Oregon taxpayers eligible don’t claim the credits.

The Department of Revenue believes that helping taxpayers file their own returns using direct file will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a federal tax credit for people for making up to $66,819 in 2024. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $7,830 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Credit of $940 on their state tax return. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits.

Some taxpayers eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit may also be able to claim the Oregon Kids Credit, which could total as much as $5,000.

All three are refundable credits meaning that eligible taxpayers can receive the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Oregon EIC, and Oregon Kids Credit, even if they are not otherwise required to file. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.
 

The IRS estimates that 1,000, or one out of every seven people in Harney County are eligible to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon. Filing with both IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon is free and available as a combination for filing both federal and state taxes for the first time this year.

Before arriving at the library, taxpayers should:

• Use the IRS's Eligibility Checker to see if they qualify to use IRS Direct File. 
• Set up an IRS online account through ID.me. Watch this 5 Easy Steps to Register an ID.me Account with IRS video to learn how. 
• Make sure they have a Revenue Online account before they come to the event to make sure they're ready to go. Watch this How to Set Up and Log In to Your Revenue Online Account for Individuals video to learn how.

Videos are also available to show how to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon and taxpayers can find more information on the department’s Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.

Taxpayers should bring the following information with them to the library.

Identification documents

• Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
• Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)

Common income and tax documents

• Forms W2 (wages from a job)
• Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
• Forms SSA-1099 (Social security benefits)

Optional documents

• Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
• Last year’s tax return

IRS Direct File does not support all return types. Specifically, taxpayers with dividends reported on Form 1099-DIV and capital gains or losses are not eligible to use IRS Direct File.

Taxpayers who aren’t eligible to use IRS Direct File can find other free options and free assistances sites on the agency’s website.  Those who can't use IRS Direct File to file their federal return can still use Direct File Oregon to file their state return.

-30-

MEDIA RELEASE  

Business burglary in Sisters results in extensive damage and arrest

Released by: Lt. Chad Davis

Release Date: March 22, 2025

Location: Mainline Station, 1001 Rail Way, Sisters, Oregon

Arrestee: Richardson, Christien     age: 26

                 Sisters, Oregon

Charges: Burglary II (one count) , Criminal Mischief I (2 counts), Criminal Mischief III (one count)

Narrative:

On 3/22/2025 at 2:50 a.m., deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to an alarm with glass breakage at the Mainline Station (1001 Rail Way) in Sisters.  The Mainline Station consists of the Chevron gas station, a convenience store and the McDonald’s restaurant. 

As deputies were enroute to the location, a citizen witness called 911 to report seeing a male in dark clothing leaving the area and heading toward Ray’s Food Place that was believed to be related to the alarm.  Upon arrival in the area, deputies saw damaged windows at the Mainline Station and items strewn about the front of the business. As deputies searched the area for the male, they observed the front door window at Ray’s had been broken and then noticed further damage at Level 5 Fitness. 

Deputies located a male matching the suspect description near the Sisters Inn and Suites, where he was detained and later taken into custody.  The suspect was identified as Christien Richardson of Sisters.  Ricardson was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on the charges of Burglary II (one count) , Criminal Mischief I (2 counts), and Criminal Mischief III (one count).

Deputies have conducted follow-up investigations and determined there was extensive damage to the Mainline Station fuel pumps, exterior glass, the interior of the convenience store and the McDonald’s restaurant. Both businesses were closed for several hours while repairs are made.  Both businesses have now re-opened.  Damage at Ray's Food Place required repairs and clean-up resulting in delaying their opening for a short time. 

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is a full-service agency that oversees the adult jail, provides patrol, criminal investigations, civil process and search and rescue operations. Special units include SWAT, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with five K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff Kent van der Kamp, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 259 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 193 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.

## End of Release ##

PORTLAND, Ore.—Two brothers from Sedona, Arizona, pleaded guilty for conspiring with one another and others to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) out of nearly $109 million in loans intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eric Karnezis, 43, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiring to commit wire fraud. Today, in a separate but related case, Anthony Karnezis, 43, also pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud.

According to court documents, from January 2021 until at least March 2022, Eric Karnezis carried out a scheme whereby he conspired to gather false and fraudulent business information from customers and used the information to submit at least 350 fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications through Blueacorn, a lender service provider, to Capital Plus Financial, a lender participating in the PPP. To facilitate the scheme, Eric Karnezis and his co-conspirators created fictious documents to support the fraudulent loan applications, including false payroll information and tax documents.

In total, Eric Karnezis submitted or caused to be submitted at least 1,300 PPP applications, which together attempted to obtain at least $178 million from Capital Plus Financial, of which approximately $105 million in loans were funded in response to the fraudulent applications. Additionally, Eric Karnezis required applicants to pay a fee for his role in the conspiracy and he received approximately $3 million for submitting the fraudulent applications.

Anthony Karnezis carried out a related scheme through at least March 2022, whereby he conspired with his brother, among others, to gather fraudulent business information from customers and used the information to submit at least 140 fraudulent PPP loan applications, through Blueacorn, to Capital Plus Financial. Based on the false and misrepresented information, more than $3.9 million in loans were funded in response to these fraudulent applications. Anthony Karnezis also required applicants to pay a fee for his role in the conspiracy and he received more than $957,000 for submitting the fraudulent applications.

On August 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 23-count indictment charging Eric Karnezis and other defendants with conspiring to commit and committing wire fraud and conspiring to commit money laundering.

On February 19, 2025, Anthony Karnezis was charged by criminal information with conspiring to commit wire fraud.

Each faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release and will both be sentenced on June 20, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Karin J. Immergut.

As part of their plea agreements, Eric Karnezis agreed to pay between $25 million and $65 million in restitution to their victims, and Anthony Karnezis agreed to pay between $3.5 million and $9.5 million in restitution to their victims. They have also agreed to forfeit any criminally-derived proceeds and property.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). It is being prosecuted by Meredith Bateman and Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Jarett, also of the District of Oregon.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

# # #

Oregon’s K-12 public schools will receive a record $76.8 million from the Common School Fund in 2025, state officials announced today.

“Across the country, school districts are facing budget shortages caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief dollars, declining enrollment, increasing costs due to inflation, and many other factors,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “Here in Oregon, we are lucky to have the Common School Fund – a critical and reliable resource in our shared goal to give students the best shot to succeed.”

Every one of Oregon’s 197 school districts receives money from the Common School Fund, which has supported public education since statehood, every year. How much each district receives depends on the number of students served. Portland Public Schools, the state’s largest district, will receive $6.6 million in 2025. Redmond School District will receive $974,288. Coos Bay School District will receive $382,092.

The average 2025 distribution is $389,607. Bethel School District in Eugene, with about 5,000 students, will receive $806,193 in 2025. See how much every Oregon school district will receive from the Common School Fund in 2025 (PDF). 

“The Common School Fund is consistent and can be used for anything, from keeping the lights on to providing instruction,” said Benjamin Dodds, teacher at Bethel School District’s Willamette High School. “That’s what makes it such a helpful funding source for schools across Oregon.”

The Common School Fund has contributed to schools since Oregon became a state, when the federal government granted nearly 3.4 million acres "for the use of schools." The State Land Board – Oregon’s Governor, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer – was established to oversee these school lands dedicated to generating revenue for the Common School Fund.

Valued at $2.38 billion as of February 2025, the Common School Fund is managed by the Oregon State Treasury, with oversight from the Oregon Investment Council. The Fund achieved a 9.7 percent return in 2024.
 

Annually, 3.5 percent of the Fund is distributed to schools. The 2025 distribution of $76.8 million is $2.6 million more than the 2024 distribution of $74.2 million and $4.6 million more than the 2023 distribution of $72.2 million.

“Schools are the foundation of healthy families and communities,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. “We’re committed to safeguarding the Common School Fund and ensuring that our responsible investment strategies continue to generate returns that put more educators, counselors and other staff in front of students across Oregon.”

Today, about 681,000 acres of school lands in all 36 Oregon counties are managed by the Department of State Lands on behalf of the State Land Board. Ranchers and farmers, Tribal governments, businesses, and more work with DSL to lease and buy lands, plan for future community needs, and keep lands healthy. School lands generated $7.2 million in revenue during fiscal year 2024.
 

“This is a historic investment and a smart one,” said Secretary of State Tobias Read. “Oregonians value education because we know our tomorrow depends on the students and teachers in classrooms today. We must continue to manage these lands wisely so Oregonians can keep benefitting from this valuable resource for generations to come.”
 

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
Contact: Oregon Department of Emergency Management 
503-934-3310 | licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_Publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov 
 

Date: March 20, 2025  

OREGON - As spring rains and seasonal flooding continue to increase the risk of water damage across Oregon, it’s critical for homeowners and renters to understand the process of filing a flood insurance claim and how to protect their financial future. 

If you are a flood insurance policyholder, follow these important steps to begin filing your flood claim: 

Steps to File Your Flood Claim: 

1. Start a claim: Contact your flood insurance company or agent as soon as possible to start your claim. Have your policy number ready and report the damage. 
2. Prepare for your inspection: Take photos and videos of all damaged property before removing or repairing anything. This documentation will help support your claim. 
3. Work with your adjuster: A flood insurance adjuster will be assigned to inspect your property. Be sure to ask questions and provide any additional documentation requested. 
4. Document your loss and receive payment: Keep a detailed list of damaged items including descriptions, replacement costs, and receipts if available. Once the adjuster finalizes your claim, you will receive your payment based on the terms of your policy. 
5. Make repairs: Use your claim payment to make necessary repairs and keep all receipts for future reference. Be cautious of contractors offering fast fixes—always verify credentials. 
6. Understand your claim payments: Learn more about how your claim payments are determined and what’s covered under your flood insurance policy. Visit: https://www.fema.gov/blog/facts-and-myths-about-flood-insurance 

Don’t Have Flood Insurance? Now’s the Time to Consider It 

Flooding can happen anywhere, not just in high-risk areas—and just one inch of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Flood insurance is a smart way to protect your home and belongings from the financial impact of flooding. 

Check with your current insurance agent to see if they offer flood insurance. If they do not, contact the National Flood Insurance Program at 877-336-2627 (toll-free) or visit www.floodsmart.gov/flood-insurance/providers to find a provider near you. 

Myths and Facts About Flood Insurance 

Did you know the average flood insurance policy costs less than $40 a month? Many people believe flood insurance is only for homeowners or that disasters must be declared for policies to apply—but these are common misconceptions. Learn more about myths and facts here: FEMA Blog – Flood Insurance Myths and Facts 

Need Help or Have a Complaint? 

If you have questions about your insurance provider or need to file a complaint, contact the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation. You can file a complaint online on the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation website. 

OEM is committed to supporting disaster survivors and preventing fraudulent activities that hinder recovery efforts. Let’s work together to protect our communities, ensure donations reach those in need, and safeguard survivors from fraud and identity theft.  

For more information on disaster recovery in your area contact your local Office of Emergency Management. For additional flood recovery resources or questions, contact your insurance agent or Oregon 211. 

To stay informed about current conditions and impacts, visit the Oregon Flood Dashboard. 

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It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov or dial 711.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
Contact: Oregon Department of Emergency Management 
503-934-3310 | licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_Publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov 

Date: March 20, 2025  

Salem, OR—As Oregon communities grapple with the aftermath of devastating flooding and landslides, that Governor Kotek declared a state of emergency, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to remain cautious and informed to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes, particularly those involving online fundraising platforms like GoFundMe.  

As communities come together to support those affected, scammers may exploit the generosity of Oregonians by creating fake fundraising campaigns or misrepresenting their intentions. Scam attempts can come via phone calls, mail, email, text, or in-person visits. To help protect yourself and your donations, OEM shares these tips:  

Double Check Your Charitable Donations 

• Verify the campaign's authenticity: Only donate to fundraisers created by individuals or organizations you know and trust. Look for detailed and transparent information about how the funds will be used. Verify fundraisers’ legitimacy on the Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Activities page of registered organizations.    

• Check for secure websites: Ensure the fundraising platform uses a secure connection (look for "https://" and a padlock icon in the browser).  Avoid clicking on suspicious links shared via email or social media.  

• Be cautious about personal information: Do not share sensitive details like Social Security numbers or financial information with unverified individuals or groups.  

• Monitor for identity theft: Regularly check your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you suspect identity theft, file a complaint at IdentityTheft.gov. If you think your identity has been compromised, freeze your credit accounts. 

• Report suspicious activity or fraud: If you suspect fraudulent activity, report it to the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or visit www.oregonconsumer.gov 

• Protect your donations from charity scams: Avoid cash donations; use checks or credit cards for security. Look for transparent fund usage plans. Sign up for scam alerts from the Oregon Department of Justice Scam Alert Network.  

Avoid Contractor Scams for Cleanup and Repairs 

As residents begin recovery efforts, fraudulent contractors may target those needing home repairs or cleanup services. Keep these tips in mind: 

• Research contractors thoroughly: Verify that the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. Check for reviews, references, and ratings through trusted sources such as the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. 
• Get written estimates: Obtain multiple estimates for the work and ensure they’re detailed and in writing. Be cautious of contractors who demand large upfront payments or offer unusually low prices. 
• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics: Don’t rush into signing contracts or agreeing to services. Take your time to make informed decisions. 
• Never pay in cash: Use checks or credit cards, as these payment methods provide a paper trail and added security. 
• Beware of door-to-door solicitors: Scammers often approach residents with unsolicited offers. Always verify their legitimacy and credentials before proceeding. 

Key Fraud Prevention Reminders 

• Public aid is free: There are no costs to apply for assistance or participate in inspections. 
• Verify government workers: Government workers always carry identification badges and never ask for or accept money. 
• If something feels off, trust your instincts: Contact law enforcement to confirm the validity of claims. 
• Follow trusted Information sources: Stay tuned to local media and official social media for reliable updates on the disaster and fraud prevention tips. 

OEM is committed to supporting disaster survivors and preventing fraudulent activities that hinder recovery efforts. Let’s work together to protect our communities, ensure donations reach those in need, and safeguard survivors from fraud and identity theft.  

For more information on disaster recovery in your area contact your local Office of Emergency Management. If you have questions or concerns about any donation requests you have received, contact your local law enforcement. 

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It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov or dial 711

Josephine County, Ore. 21 Mar 2025- On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 5:23 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 16, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford F-150, operated by Ethan Wayne Anderson (36) of Cave Junction, struck a pedestrian, Buck Carlos Gene Arby Ward (58) of Crescent City (CA), who was in the roadway for unknown reasons. 

The pedistrian (Ward) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Anderson) was reportedly not injured.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. Weather conditions (fog) is being considered a contributing factor in the crash.

OSP was assisted by Illinois Valley Fire.

# # #

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.

SALEM, Oregon— The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet 9 a.m. to noon Friday, March 28 to discuss a draft governance structure, roles and next steps.

The hybrid meeting is open to the public and attendees can join in person at Oregon Department of Forestry Office, 2600 State Street Salem, in the Tillamook Room or online via Microsoft Teams.  

STIA was established to plan the development and maintenance of the proposed Salmonberry Trail.

The proposed tail is an 86-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range. More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

Join Online:

Platform: Microsoft Teams
Meeting ID: 259 257 525 194
Passcode: K8eA9ur6
Phone conference ID: 396 278 293# (if dialing in)

To submit public comments for board members to review during the meeting, please send comments to Mike Cafferata at ata@odf.oregon.gov">mike.j.cafferata@odf.oregon.gov at least three days prior to the meeting.

United States Attorney's Office

District of Alaska

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Oregon man was arrested by the FBI yesterday in Portland after a federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment this week charging him with transporting a minor with the intent to have the child engage in criminal sexual activity.

According to court documents, in 2019, Steven Fox, 59, moved from Pendleton, Oregon, to Anchorage, Alaska. At some point that year, Fox allegedly presented himself as a long-lost “uncle” to a family with two minor daughters and began caring for the minors.

Court documents further allege that in January 2020, Fox transported the minors from Alaska to Oregon. Fox started sexually abusing one of the minors, who was 9 years old, almost immediately after leaving Alaska.

Fox is charged with one count of transportation of minors. The defendant is scheduled to make his initial court appearance today at 1:30 p.m. PST before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon. If convicted, he faces between 10 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman of the District of Alaska and Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI Anchorage Field Office and Anchorage Police Department investigated this case as part of the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, with assistance from the Pendleton Police Department and FBI Portland Field Office. If anyone has information concerning Fox’s alleged actions, please contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office (907) 276-4441 or anonymously at tips.fbi.gov.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers and Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are prosecuting the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Oregon.

This case was brought as part of 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

March 21, 2025

Child Care Infrastructure Fund Round Two Accepting Applications on March 26

$15 million will be awarded for infrastructure projects at Oregon child care facilities.

Business Oregon is pleased to announce that the application portal for Round Two of the Child Care Infrastructure Program will be opening on March 26, 2025. The Child Care Infrastructure Program, created in response to Oregon’s House Bill 3005 (2023), provides critical financial assistance for infrastructure activities that support child care facilities. Business Oregon is working with the Department of Early Learning and Care, other state agencies, and private and non-profit entities to implement this grant and loan program.

With $50 million in lottery bonds approved by the Oregon Legislature at the recommendation of Governor Tina Kotek, the Child Care Infrastructure Fund is dedicated to improving and expanding the spaces where Oregon’s youngest minds learn and grow, ultimately making a significant impact on children, families, and communities statewide.

The Child Care Infrastructure Program directly supports Governor Kotek’s Education and Early Learning priority by expanding and improving child care infrastructure so that children in Oregon have the opportunity to thrive in their early learning environments and families are empowered with the child care support they need to succeed.

“Affordable, accessible child care is an essential support for working families,” Governor Kotek said. “The first round of child care funding is showing results for Oregon families across the state, serving children with a wide range of needs. Let’s keep going.”

The first round of Child Care Infrastructure Fund funding awarded a total of $10 million in grants to 64 child care businesses in 29 different Oregon counties for eligible projects involving fixed, immovable assets including new construction, repairs, renovations, modernizations, retrofitting, property acquisition and planning projects. Learn more about the awarded projects at www.oregon.gov/biz/.

“Access to affordable, safe, and high-quality child care is necessary to support the needs of Oregon families and our state’s workforce,” said Sophorn Cheang, Director of Business Oregon. “The need for these grants is clear. In the first round, we received 736 applications requesting a total of $280 million in funding. We were only able to award $10 million of those requests. So, we are looking forward to awarding another $15 million in Round Two and even more later this year to continue to support these critical projects.”

This spring, another $15 million will be distributed to awardees in the second round of funding. The application portal for the second round of funding opens on March 26, 2025 and closes on April 30, 2025. Access to the portal starting at noon on March 26 can be found on the Business Oregon Child Care Infrastructure webpage at www.oregon.gov/biz/.

“This second round of grants will provide resources to expand high quality child care and preschool options for families who desperately need care,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “Child care and infrastructure are intimately linked. We know that when we remove barriers in locating, developing, and expanding child care facilities, we are creating economic opportunities and care options to Oregon workers to help grow the economy and support children and families to thrive.”

An additional $25 million in Child Care Infrastructure Funding will become open for applications later in 2025. These rounds of funding will continue to address the demands of child care providers, ensuring that every dollar invested makes a meaningful difference in the availability and quality of child care services throughout Oregon.

If you have questions or need technical assistance completing the Child Care Infrastructure Program application, please contact the CCIF Technical Assistance providers below:

Northwest Native Chamber

Website: Child Care Infrastructure Fund - Northwest Native Chamber

Email: t@nwnc.org">ccifsupport@nwnc.org

First Children’s Finance

Website: First Children’s Finance - Oregon

Email: egon@FirstChildrensFinance.org">InfoOregon@FirstChildrensFinance.org

Media Contact: er.nabors@biz.oregon.gov" target="_blank">Amber Nabors, er.nabors@biz.oregon.gov">amber.nabors@biz.oregon.gov

Business Oregon, the state's economic development agency, invests in Oregon businesses, communities, and people to promote a globally competitive, diverse, and inclusive economy. The agency's services span rural community development and infrastructure financing; business retention, expansion and recruitment; export promotion and international trade; investments in industry research and development and entrepreneurship; small business assistance; and support for arts and cultural organizations. Learn more at biz.oregon.gov.

About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care

The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC. You can also connect with DELC on Facebook or sign up for news alerts and updates.

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PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA

21 DE MARZO DE 2025

Segunda Ronda del Fondo de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil Aceptará Aplicaciones el 26 de Marzo

Se otorgarán $15 millones para proyectos de infraestructura en centros de cuidado infantil en Oregón

Business Oregon se alegra en anunciar que el portal de aplicaciones para la segunda ronda del Programa de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil abrirá el 26 de marzo de 2025. El Programa de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil creado en respuesta a la Ley 3005 de Oregón, proporciona asistencia financiera crucial para actividades de infraestructura que apoyan los centros de cuidado infantil. Business Oregon está trabajando en colaboración con el Departamento de Aprendizaje y Cuidado Temprano, otras agencias estatales y entidades privadas y sin fines de lucro para implementar este programa de becas y préstamos.

Con una asignación de $50 millones en bonos de lotería aprobados por la Legislatura de Oregón por recomendación de la Gobernadora Tina Kotek, el Fondo de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil está dedicado a mejorar y expandir los espacios donde las mentes más jóvenes de Oregón aprenden y crecen, logrando un impacto significativo en los niños, las familias y comunidades de todo el estado.

El Programa de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil apoya directamente la prioridad de Educación y Aprendizaje Temprano de la Gobernadora Tina Kotek, al ampliar y mejorar la infraestructura de cuidado infantil para que los niños de Oregon tengan la oportunidad de prosperar en sus espacios de aprendizaje temprano y las familias reciben el apoyo que necesitan para tener éxito.

"El cuidado infantil accesible y disponible es un apoyo esencial para las familias trabajadoras," dijo la Gobernadora Kotek. "La primera ronda de financiamiento para el cuidado infantil ya está dando resultados para las familias de Oregón en todo el estado, sirviendo a niños con una amplia variedad de necesidades. Sigamos avanzando."

En la primera ronda del Fondo de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil, otorgó $10 millones en subvenciones a 64 negocios de cuidado infantil en 29 condados de Oregón para proyectos elegibles que involucraban activos fijos e inmuebles. Estos incluyen construcción nueva, reparaciones, renovaciones, modernizaciones, adaptaciones, adquisición de propiedades y proyectos de planificación. Puede conocer más sobre los proyectos premiados en www.oregon.gov/biz/

“El acceso a servicios de cuidado infantil accesibles, seguros, y de alta calidad es fundamental para apoyar las necesidades de las familias de Oregón y a nuestra fuerza laboral,” dijo Sophorn Cheang, Directora de Business Oregon. “La necesidad de estas subvenciones es evidente. En la primera ronda, recibimos 736 solicitudes que sumaban un total de $280 millones en financiamiento solicitado, pero solo pudimos otorgar $10 millones. Por eso, estamos emocionados de poder destinar otros $15 millones en la segunda ronda y aún más fondos durante este año para seguir apoyando estos proyectos tan esenciales.”

Esta primavera, se distribuirán otros $15 millones a los beneficiarios de la segunda ronda de financiamiento. El portal de aplicaciones para esta ronda estará abierto del 26 de marzo al 30 de abril de 2025. El acceso al portal a partir del mediodía del 26 de marzo se podrá encontrar en la página del Fondo de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil de Business Oregon: www.oregon.gov/biz/

“Esta segunda ronda de subvenciones proporcionará recursos para ampliar las opciones de cuidado infantil y preescolar de alta calidad para las familias que necesitan cuidados con urgencia,” comentó Alyssa Chatterjee, Directora de DELC. “El cuidado infantil y la infraestructura están profundamente relacionados. Sabemos que al eliminar barreras para la localización, desarrollo y expansión de centros de cuidado infantil, estamos creando oportunidades económicas y opciones de cuidado para los trabajadores de Oregón, ayudando a fortalecer la economía y brindar apoyo para que los niños y sus familias prosperen.”

Otros 25 millones de dólares en Financiación de Infraestructuras de Cuidado Infantil estarán abiertos a solicitudes más adelante en 2025. Con estas oportunidades de financiamiento, seguimos respondiendo a las necesidades de los proveedores de cuidado infantil, asegurando que cada dólar invertido marque una diferencia positive en la disponibilidad y calidad de los servicios de cuidado infantil en Oregón.

Si tiene preguntas o necesita asistencia técnica para completar la solicitud del Programa de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil, por favor póngase en contacto con los proveedores de asistencia técnica del CCIF a continuación:

Northwest Native Chamber Sitio web: Fondo de Infraestructura para el Cuidado Infantil - Northwest Native Chamber Correo electrónico: t@nwnc.org" target="_blank">ccifsupport@nwnc.org

First Children’s Finance Sitio web: First Children's Finance - Oregon

Correo electrónico: egon@firstchildrensfinance.org" target="_blank">InfoOregon@FirstChildrensFinance.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Friday, March 21, 2025

BEND, OR — This coming April, explore identity, cultures and how to live the good life when the High Desert Museum’s Indigenous Speaker Series returns. Promising a vibrant showcase of Indigenous voices, the series features an array of Indigenous artists, storytellers, scholars and more who share their unique perspectives with the community.

“We are honored to once again collaborate with Indigenous knowledge holders to bring vital conversations to our visitors,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “The April events are a continuation of an effort to elevate Indigenous voices to share the issues and cultures of the High Desert.”

The three April events explore topics such as identity, creativity, community and portraiture. Two of the events are connected to an exhibition open now at the Museum, Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland. Featuring 20-plus enlarged portraits taken by Matsura of Native peoples in the early 1900s, the exhibition provides visitors a unique look at life in Okanogan County in Washington state during a time of transition. The exhibition originated at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, Wash.

On April 1, Michael Holloman (Colville Confederated Tribes), a Washington State University associate professor and a curator of the original exhibition, will lead a panel discussion that looks deeper into Matsura’s life. “Frank S. Matsura: His Life and Portraits” also includes film and media scholar Glen Mimura and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Beth Harrington. The event will consider Matsura’s experiences as a Japanese-born photographer and his nuanced imagery of Native communities. Tickets are $5, with a 20% discount for Museum members and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/matsura-portraits. 

Then, on April 25, the Museum will host LaRonn Katchia (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), the director of Pathfinders, for a discussion of the short film. Katchia, a Warm Springs/Wasco/Paiute filmmaker and storyteller, will be joined by Thyreicia Simtustus, Kahmussa Green and Kiahna Allen (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), who are featured in the film. Part of the Matsura exhibition at the Museum, the film explores how the three young leaders are finding their own paths in balancing Native and non-Native worlds. Tickets are $5, with Members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/pathfinders. 

In between those two events, on April 17, the Museum will host Chris La Tray, Métis storyteller and award-winning author of Becoming Little Shell. La Tray will discuss the Anishinaabe word Mino-bimaadiziwin, meaning “the good life.” The concept emphasizes the importance of community well-being and living in harmony with the world around us. At its simplest, it is living a life in balance, but how?

Montana’s Poet Laureate from 2023-2025, La Tray is a descendent of the Pembina Band of the mighty Red River of the North and a member of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. His first book, One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large, won the 2018 Montana Book Award and a 2019 High Plains Book Award. The event includes light refreshment and a no-host bar. Tickets are $12, with members receiving a 20% discount and free entry for Tribal members. For tickets, visit highdesertmuseum.org/the-good-life.

The Indigenous Speakers Series is made possible by The Roundhouse Foundation, with additional support from Author's Unbound for the April 17 Chris La Tray event. For more information and to purchase tickets for Indigenous Speakers Series events, visit highdesertmuseum.org/indigenous-speakers-series.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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Redmond, OR – This month, City of Redmond Public Works crews will begin updating 18 school zone speed limit signs.  The new signs will still require people to drive 20 MPH while in a school zone, but only during times that the signs are “flashing.”  The new speed limit signs will read, “SCHOOL, SPEED LIMIT 20 – When Flashing.” 

In October 2024, the City of Redmond’s Traffic Safety Working Group, in partnership with the Redmond School District, conducted a community-wide survey seeking feedback on existing school zone signage and a proposed change.  Ninety-four percent (94%) of respondents were supportive of changing school zone signage to “When Flashing.” 

18 individual signs will be replaced in total, focusing on roadways adjacent to schools that are normally 35 MPH or roadways that are arterials or collectors and well-traveled at less than 35 MPH.  Drivers must read school zone speed limit signs to determine if they must travel 20 MPH. Installation is slated to be completed by the end of March. 

The new signs will be equipped with large flashing amber lights which will indicate when the school zone speed limit is in effect.  The school zone speed limits will only apply during arrival, lunch (high school only), and departure times, specific to each school. Additionally, the new signs will have a radar-enabled driver feedback display that will show the speed of the vehicle as it is entering the school zone. Driver feedback displays will only be active when the school zone signs are flashing. 

Safety in school zones is a top priority for the Redmond Police Department, conducting enhanced enforcement of speeding and distracted driving violations, when the school zone signs are flashing.   

This project was funded through grants from by the US Department of Transportation - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, by way of the Oregon Department of Transportation – Transportation Safety Office. 

Clarification on Scope of Declaration: Updated March 20, 2025
This state-level declaration is specifically focused on enabling the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to access federal highway funds for repairs to the federal aid highway system. It does not require counties to issue their own emergency declarations unless they determine it is necessary to support their local response or recovery efforts. For example, if a county finds it beneficial to issue a separate local emergency declaration to activate specific local emergency authorities, resources or processes, that is a local decision—but it is not mandated or required by this state declaration.

Salem, OR — On March 18, Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency due to flooding and landslides from February 24 through March 18, 2025.

“When emergencies hit, Oregon families and businesses need to know we have their back in every part of the state,” Governor Kotek said. “Recovery starts as soon as disaster strikes, and this declaration will help get Oregonians back to normal as soon as possible. I urge everyone to follow the instructions and evacuation levels issued by emergency officials, subscribe to emergency alerts on ORAlert.gov, have an evacuation plan, prepare a go-kit, and stay aware of changing conditions.”

Following ORS 401.165, the Governor determined a potential threat to life, safety, property, and significant damage to infrastructure exists due to flooding and landslides that have caused and continue to cause a state of emergency in Clackamas, Coos, Curry, Douglas, Harney, Jackson, Josephine, Lane, Multnomah, and Malheur counties. At the time of this release, the Governor’s Office is closely monitoring a potential flood in the Burns area of Harney County and preemptively added Harney County to this declaration.

Beginning on February 24, 2025, ongoing storms have caused significant flooding and landslides throughout Oregon, resulting in one fatality, critical transportation failures and loss of power and communications capabilities.

This declaration directs the Oregon Department of Transportation to provide appropriate assistance and seek federal resources to repair and reconstruct the $10 million dollars or more in damages and impact to the federal aid highway system in the impacted counties. This declaration is limited to the provision of assistance by the Oregon Department of Transportation to repair and reconstruct eligible roadways that are part of the federal aid highway system. This declaration is not to be construed as a comprehensive declaration or proclamation of emergency for other purposes.

On March 17, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3, which means the state is coordinating closely with local, Tribal, and state partners to share information and support local response and recovery operations as needed. To stay informed about current conditions and impacts, visit the Oregon Flood Dashboard: State of Oregon Flood Dashboard.

Salem, OR – Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) announces a name clearing hearing for Raymond Byrd on March 21, 2025, at 4 p.m. remotely through Microsoft Teams.

The purpose of this hearing is to provide an opportunity to Raymond Byrd to present their perspective regarding the recently released Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) investigation report and his public employment. Byrd may present their views, provide written materials and invite witnesses to speak on their behalf. A representative from DAS will be present but is not obligated to respond to statements or answer any questions.

What: Name Clearing Hearing for Raymond Byrd
When: Friday, March 21, 2024, 4 p.m.
Where: Microsoft Teams (https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MzI2YWIwMzktOWIyMy00YTU3LWFkZTQtMjY5ZWRiYjc4NmRj%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22aa3f6932-fa7c-47b4-a0ce-a598cad161cf%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%223ef23bdf-9d36-4523-94d0-090988f5f8d4%22%7d)
Who: Public

The hearing will be open to the public and it will be recorded. Video/audio feed for attendees and chat will not be active for members of the public.

To obtain a copy of the investigation report, please submit a public records request.

EUGENE, Ore.— The former owner and former chief financial officer of Zadeh Kicks LLC, a now-defunct Oregon corporation that sold limited edition and collectible sneakers online, pleaded guilty today for perpetrating a fraud scheme that cost customers more than $65 million in unfulfilled orders and defrauded financial institutions out of more than $15 million.

Michael Malekzadeh, 42, a Eugene resident, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiring to commit bank fraud. Bethany Mockerman, 42, also of Eugene, has pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit bank fraud.

According to court documents, Malekzadeh started his business in 2013 by purchasing limited edition and collectible sneakers to resell online. Beginning as early as January 2020, Zadeh Kicks began offering preorders of sneakers before their public release dates, allowing Malekzadeh to collect money upfront before fulfilling orders. Malekzadeh advertised, sold, and collected payments from customers for preorders knowing he could not satisfy all orders placed. By April 2022, Malekzadeh owed customers more than $65 million in undelivered sneakers.

In her role as chief financial officer at Zadeh Kicks, Mockerman conspired with Malekzadeh to provide false and altered financial information to numerous financial institutions—including providing altered bank statements—on more than 15 bank loan applications. Together, Mockerman and Malekzadeh received more than $15 million in loans from these applications.

During the investigation, agents seized millions of dollars in cash and luxury goods that Malekzadeh acquired with the proceeds of his fraud, including luxury watches, jewelry and hundreds of handbags. Additionally, almost $7.5 million was seized from the sale of Malekzadeh’s residence in Eugene, his watches, and luxury cars manufactured by Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche.

On July 29, 2022, Malekzadeh was charged by criminal information with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and money laundering, and Mockerman was charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

Malekzadeh faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release for wire fraud, and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine and five years of supervised release for conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Mockerman faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a $1,000,000 fine and five years of supervised release. Malekzadeh will be sentenced on August 12, 2025, and Mockerman will be sentenced on August 26, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

As part of their plea agreements, Malekzadeh and Mockerman have agreed to pay restitution in full to their victims and if needed forfeit any criminally-derived proceeds and property used to facilitate their crimes identified by the government prior to sentencing.

This case was investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Oregon Intellectual Property Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie C. de Villiers, also of the District of Oregon.

# # #

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) acted within its authority when it adopted rules strengthening safety and health requirements for agricultural labor housing (ALH), the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed in written legal advice.

The legal advice clears away any potential doubt about the division’s authority to enforce its amended ALH rule, parts of which are scheduled to take effect March 31, 2025. At issue was a view expressed by the Office of the Legislative Counsel that Oregon OSHA exceeded its authority in amending its ALH rule. Legislative Counsel’s opinion narrowly focused on a statute dealing with registration, failing to account for Oregon OSHA’s separate, broad authority to regulate all places of employment – including housing provided as a condition of employment – under the Oregon Safe Employment Act (OSEA).

The DOJ written legal advice begins by confirming written legal advice from 1989 in which DOJ discussed Oregon OSHA’s broad authority under the OSEA to regulate farmers, farm labor contractors, and others who provide living quarters or shelter for employees. DOJ then addresses the view that Oregon OSHA exceeded its authority when issuing its recent ALH rule by failing to exempt certain categories of housing, stating that the “farmworker camp registration statutes in ORS 658.705 to 658.850 do not alter or limit the director’s authority to regulate agriculture labor housing under the OSEA.” The written legal advice concludes by clearly stating that Oregon OSHA “has broad authority to adopt rules related to agricultural labor housing, including for single, isolated dwelling[s] occupied solely by members of the same family, or by five or fewer unrelated individuals.”

“We are pleased with DOJ’s conclusion that we continue to act within our legal authority regarding the development and enforcement of the ALH rule, which has been in place for decades, and that we can move past any uncertainty about the amendments that Oregon OSHA adopted,” said Andrew Stolfi, director of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, which includes Oregon OSHA as a division. “We remain fully committed to helping employers implement the changes in the rule. We have already published easy-to-use fact sheets and pocket-size cards about the changes, with more helpful resources on the way.”

Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act (Chapter 654 of Oregon’s laws), Oregon OSHA has broad authority to set “reasonable, mandatory occupational safety and health standards for all employments and places of employment.” Meanwhile, Chapter 658 of the state’s laws gives Oregon OSHA authority to set housing registration requirements and requires operators of agricultural labor housing to comply with any other rules under the Oregon Safe Employment Act.

Oregon OSHA enacted its ALH rule amendments under the authority granted to it by the state Legislature in Chapters 654 and 658. The division did so Jan. 8, 2025, following a rulemaking process that included stakeholder engagement and rule development, rule proposal and public notification, and public hearings and written comments. The changes include more rigorous requirements for kitchens and bathing and toilet facilities, and enhanced safety requirements for facility grounds and water testing. The changes advance labor housing standards, aligning with federal requirements and reflecting best practices.

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Current date: March 20th, 2025

Date of incident: March 19th, 2025

Case #: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – 25-13387  

Arrested:

Kim Marie Robertson, 65-year-old La Pine resident

Jason Cory Robertson, 54-year-old La Pine resident

Charges:

Kim Robertson charges:

-ORS 166.270(1) FELON IN POSSESSION OF A FIREARM (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.337(1)(g) POSSESSION OF CANNABINOID EXTRACTS (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.337(3)(A)(II) UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA >8 POUNDS (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.349(3)(b)(A) ATTEMPTED MANUFACTURE OF MARIJUANA >12 (A MISDEMEANOR) 

Jason Robertson charges:

-ORS 166.270(1) FELON IN POSSESSION OF A FIREARM (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.337(1)(g) POSSESSION OF CANNABINOID EXTRACTS (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.337(3)(A)(II) UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA >8 POUNDS (C FELONY)

-ORS 475C.349(3)(b)(A) ATTEMPTED MANUFACTURE OF MARIJUANA >12 (A MISDEMEANOR) 

Press Release Information:

At approximately 0900 hours on 03/19/2025, Detectives with the Deschutes County Illegal Marijuana Market Enforcement (DCIMME) team assisted by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team, executed a search warrant in the 15000 block of Park Drive, La Pine, Oregon. This search warrant was the result of an investigation involving the illegal manufacture and distribution of illegal marijuana. 

During the search warrant, Detectives contacted Kim Robertson and Jason Robertson who were being investigated for various crimes.  During the investigation, Detectives located a dismantled large-scale marijuana grow within a shop on the property. The search yielded 17.98 pounds of processed marijuana flower and 993.37 grams of suspected Butane Honey Oil (BHO). During the search, Detectives located evidence consistent with the distribution of marijuana and BHO as the quantities were much larger than personal use amounts.  During the search, Detectives also located a handgun. Both mentioned individuals have an extensive criminal history preventing them from possessing a firearm. 

Jason and Kim Robertsons were released at the scene with criminal citations to appear in Circuit Court for the above-mentioned charges. 

CODE Detectives and the DCIMME team were assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office during this investigation.

DCIMME would like to thank the following agencies for their assistance with this investigation: Deschutes County Community Action Target Team Division, Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Deschutes County District Attorney's Office, Deschutes County Code Enforcement and Oregon Water Resources.

The Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program and the following Central Oregon law enforcement agencies:  Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Redmond Police Department,  Prineville Police Department, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department, Oregon State Police, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Police Department, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Warm Springs Tribal Police Department, Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson County District Attorney’s, and the Oregon National Guard.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement task forces to disrupt or dismantle local, multi-state and international drug trafficking organizations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Media hotline: 503-813-6018  

PacifiCorp responds to Oregon Department of Forestry report on Santiam Canyon Fire 

PORTLAND, OR (March 19, 2025) — A newly-released Oregon Department of Forestry report supports PacifiCorp’s longstanding assertion that electrical equipment was not the cause of widespread property damage in the Santiam Canyon during the 2020 wildfires. 

The ODF investigation, which began shortly after the 2020 wildfires, found no evidence that powerline ignitions significantly contributed to the spread of the fire in the Santiam Canyon. Instead, ODF investigators found the most probable explanation for these ignitions was spot fires from the lightning-caused Beachie Creek Fire, which was burning upwind of the ignitions in the Santiam Canyon. 

“The report confirms PacifiCorp’s long-held position that any wildfire ignitions linked to the company’s electrical equipment in the Santiam Canyon did not contribute to the widespread devastation that occurred when the Beachie Creek fire tore through the canyon,” said Pacific Power president Ryan Flynn. “While we continue to recognize that the 2020 wildfires were undeniably tragic, the thorough investigation by ODF provides important context and details absent during the trial proceedings.” 

According to the ODF’s findings, all identified ignitions potentially linked to electrical equipment were promptly suppressed by local residents and/or local municipal fire departments. 

The company is committed to continued substantial investments to prevent wildfires from starting and to limit spread when they do occur, bolstering the safety of our communities. 

Those interested in access to the full report can submit a request through the Oregon Department of Forestry. 

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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.   

March 19, 2025 

Media Contact: Amber Shoebridge 
er.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov" target="_blank">amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov 
503-931-9586 

Unexpected patient death at Oregon State Hospital 

Salem, Ore_ There was an unexpected patient death at the Oregon State Hospital (OSH) Salem campus on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Family have been notified. Oregon State Police are investigating. 

Hospital leadership have also informed the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), The Joint Commission (TJC) and Office of Training, Investigations and Safety (OTIS). 

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On March 18, 2025, at approximately 2:20 p.m., Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) security staff were informed of suspected contraband in a special housing unit. While conducting a search, a Correctional Corporal discovered an unknown substance. The area was immediately secured and evacuated. The institution activated an Incident Command Structure (ICS), shut down the air filtration system, and contained the suspected substance. DRCI is working with Oregon State Police and National Guard Civil Service Unit to investigate and assess any potential hazards.

The Corporal received naloxone (Narcan) after direct exposure, was treated at a local hospital, and released. A Correctional Officer in the area experienced an adverse reaction and was evaluated by DRCI Health Services staff.

“The Oregon Department of Corrections takes any threat or risk to the safety and security of employees and adults in custody very seriously. Incidents like this highlight the critical need to prevent the introduction of dangerous and illegal contraband into our facilities,” stated DOC Director Michael Reese.

Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) is located four miles east of Madras in central Oregon. DRCI is a multi-custody prison that currently houses 1035 minimum-custody incarcerated adults. DRCI provides a range of correctional programs and services including education and trades programs, mental health treatment, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work crews. Construction began in October 2005 with the first minimum-security adults in custody (AICs) arriving in September 2007. DRCI is the largest minimum-custody facility in the state and Oregon’s fourteenth prison.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A Coos Bay, Oregon man was arraigned in federal court today for possessing, distributing, attempting to produce, and producing child pornography.

Thomas Owen Barnett, 39, has been charged with attempting to use and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct and possessing and distributing child pornography.

According to court documents, between September and December 2023, Barnett is alleged to have knowingly and intentionally used a minor to engage in and record sexually explicit conduct. In September 2024, Barnett is further alleged to have used Kik and Instagram, online social media platforms, to engage in chats involving child sex abuse, seek opportunities to engage in child sexual abuse, and advertise the sale of child pornography. At times, Barnett posed as a young man or a minor female to persuade his victims to produce and exchange child pornography, including requests for sexually explicit materials depicting an infant.

Barnett made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025.

Attempting to use a minor and using a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct are each punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison with a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence, distribution of child pornography is punishable by up to 20 years in prison with a 5-year mandatory minimum sentence, and possession of child pornography is punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison. If convicted, Barnett also faces up to a lifetime term of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 for each count.

This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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MEDFORD, Ore.—An Ontario, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison Friday for carjacking three victims at gunpoint.

Gregory Escobedo, Jr., 31, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

The first 100 months of Escobedo’s federal sentence will run concurrent to a 180-to-360-month state prison sentence previously imposed in Canyon County, Idaho, and will be served in Idaho state prison. Escobedo will serve the remaining 80 months of his federal sentence in federal prison following the completion of his state prison sentence. Following his release from federal prison, Escobedo must also complete a three-year term of federal supervised release.

According to court documents, on March 3, 2021, at an apartment complex in Ontario, Escobedo ordered a victim to exit their vehicle at gunpoint and drove away in the stolen vehicle. The following day, Escobedo approached a vehicle parked on the side of the road and carjacked another victim while brandishing a firearm. The stolen vehicle was out of gas which caused Escobedo to quickly return to the vehicle he arrived in and flee the area.

Later the same day, on March 4, 2021, in Caldwell, Idaho, Escobedo stole an unattended truck at a gas station. The owner pursued Escobedo, who eventually stopped the truck, and was confronted by the victim. Escobedo shot the unarmed victim in the chest and fled. The victim was taken to a hospital and survived. Shortly after the shooting, Escobedo was stopped by law enforcement and arrested.

On May 20, 2021, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a five-count indictment charging Escobedo with carjacking, possessing a firearm during a crime of violence, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

On July 7, 2024, Escobedo pleaded guilty to two counts of carjacking.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Judith Harper, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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BEND, OR — Spring break kicks off this Saturday, March 22 at the High Desert Museum with special programs, new exhibitions and summer hours, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

The popular indoor flight demonstration Sky Hunters returns to the E. L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. Visitors experience powerful predators close up as raptors fly just overhead, showcasing the birds’ agility and grace while learning about their lives in the wild. The program is daily from Saturday, March 22 – Saturday, March 29 at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm and is first come, first served. Tickets are $7 and available at Admissions on the day of. Museum members receive a 20% discount. Sky Hunters is possible with support from Fly Redmond.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy daily talks about High Desert flora and fauna, free with admission. These include the Nature Walk at 10:30 am, Otter Encounter at 12:30 pm and Mammal Encounter at 3:00 pm.

On Saturday, March 22 and from March 25-29, the High Desert Ranch and Sawmill will be open from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm with interactive talks about life in the High Desert. Experience history and jump in to lend a hand or ask about the many buildings and objects.

Spring break visitors will also be able to experience the Museum’s temporary exhibitions. The new, original exhibition Patterns at Play: Fractals in Nature in the Brooks Gallery features interactive play and soft music to immerse visitors into the repeating patterns of nature. Fractals start with one simple shape, such as a triangle. When that triangle is repeated over and over, either smaller or larger, the result is a more complicated pattern that can scale.

Visitors can create their own patterns and watch as fractals dance on the walls, and two lighted tables will delight littles and their caregivers alike with hands-on shape-building. Bean bags encourage relaxation while fractal patterns dance across a wall-sized video screen. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/fractals.

Another exhibition open now is Frank S. Matsura: Portraits from the Borderland.

Featuring 20-plus enlarged photographs of Indigenous families from the 1900s, the exhibition shares the story of Frank S. Matsura, a Japanese-born photographer who immigrated to Okanogan County in Washington state in the early 1900s. He set up a studio in the area and began photographing the local Indigenous communities, providing history a nuanced and detailed view of life during a time of transition.

The exhibit includes period artifacts and objects from the Museum’s own collection as well as from the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, Wash. Video documentaries explain the history and the photography, while also highlighting young leaders of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Generous support for the exhibition is provided by Art Bridges. It was organized by the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and was curated by Michael Holloman and Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture Associate Curator of Special Projects Anne-Claire Mitchell. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/matsura.
 

Other temporary exhibitions include Neighbors: Wildlife Paintings by Hilary Baker. The exhibit, located in the Desertarium Gallery, features more than a dozen of Baker’s artworks. Baker, who grew up in Los Angeles during the latter years of Hollywood’s Golden Age, spent most of her childhood exploring the hills and canyons near her home. She searched for animal bones and other evidence of wildlife amid the pavement and backdrop of Los Angeles. The exhibition explores the complex relationship between manmade spaces and native wildlife in a crisp, graphic painting style. The exhibition closes on Sunday, April 6. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/hilary-baker.

Blood, Sweat & Flannel, an original exhibition, explores what flannel through the ages. From a rugged lumberjack of the 1800s to a classic grunge band of the 1990s, this unique experience invites visitors to dig deeper into the stories behind the fabric. Today, flannel is produced from various materials, including wool, cotton and even synthetic fibers. exhibition features imagery, tactile elements and even an audio interactive element that bring to life the experiences of those who wore flannel during each era. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/flannel.

And Forest at Night reveals the sights and sounds of the forest when the moon is high and the stars are out. An immersive and interactive exhibition, Forest at Night takes visitors on a virtual tour, featuring insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. In addition to showcasing the wonders of the night, the exhibit also delves into the pressing issue of light pollution and how artificial light disrupts the nighttime ecosystem. Visitors may gaze up at twinkling stars and learn about the constellations that guide migrating birds on their way through the High Desert. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/forest-at-night.

More information on visiting the High Desert Museum is available at highdesertmuseum.org/visit-bend-oregon.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM:

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

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