Date: June 17, 2026

Case #: 2026-00009179

Incident: Bend Police seek additional victims in sexual abuse case

Arrested: Alex Roger Stanley, 19-year-old Bend resident 

Offenses: Rape III x2, Sexual Abuse II x2, Using a Child in a Sexual Display x3, Distribution of a Controlled Substance to a Minor (Methamphetamine)

On Wednesday, June 17, Bend Police detectives arrested 19-year-old Bend resident Alex Roger Stanley on suspicion of the above charges, all related to the same victim.

Stanley’s arrest is the result of an investigation that began in February 2026 when a 15-year-old female victim was provided a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) examination at St. Charles. Bend Police detectives conducted an investigation which resulted in probable cause for Stanley’s arrest.

Stanley is a transient man who has been in the Bend area for several years. During that time, he has had periodic access to children. Bend Police detectives believe Stanley may have victimized additional minors. If you have information to share, please call non-emergency dispatch at 541-693-6911.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Armani Andrews.

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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CURRY COUNTY, Ore. (29 June 2026) – On Friday, June 26, 2026, at approximately 8:20 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 101 near milepost 312 in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Chrysler Pacifica, operated by Luke Anree May Dizon (18) of Covington (WA), was traveling northbound on Hwy. 101 near Port Orford when it drifted into the oncoming lane and collided head-on with a small school bus that had been converted into a motorhome, operated by David Eugene Johansen (73) of Fort Bragg (CA).

The operator of the Chrysler (Dizon) was declared deceased at the scene and had reportedly fallen asleep at the wheel.

Chrysler passenger Maryanne Drake (18) of Auburn (WA) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Two other adult passengers in the Chrysler were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

One adult Chrysler passenger was not injured.

The operator of the converted motorhome (Johansen) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, the Gold Beach Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.  
 

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

SALEM, ORE. - Five years after Senate Bill 762, Oregon is celebrating the progress and impact of Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon. These statewide programs, created by the Department of the State Fire Marshal, built a stronger foundation for wildfire risk reduction and response at a time when the state’s wildfire exposure continues to intensify.

Fire Adapted Oregon was created to help communities understand and reduce wildfire risk through education, defensible space, home hardening, grants, partnerships, and regional support. Over the past five years, the program trained 502 defensible space assessors from 94 agencies, completing 6,539 assessments across the state. Fire Adapted Oregon has advanced guidance on defensible space, including the importance of the first five feet around homes and structures, strengthened partnerships like the collaboration with the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, and expanded statewide mitigation and home hardening investments through grants. Regional delivery across nine districts ensures support reaches communities where it is needed most and in a way that best reflects each community’s needs.

Response Ready Oregon was established to modernize and expand the fire service’s ability to respond quickly and effectively when wildfires ignite. The Engine Program delivered 76 new engines and tactical water tenders to local fire agencies, supported seasonal staffing, expanded the immediate response and pre‑positioning programs, and strengthened the three all-hazard incident management teams within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. Regional mobilization coordinators connect local chiefs to resources and support. These investments help firefighters stop fires while they are small, reducing loss and protecting communities.

Oregon’s wildfire exposure has increased significantly. The Rowena Fire in 2025 resulted in the loss of 56 homes, a trend consistent with the western U.S. The West has experienced a 246% increase in homes and structures destroyed by wildfire between 1999–2009 and 2010–2020, according to a study published in PNAS Nexus. Fire Adapted Oregon and Response Ready Oregon provide coordinated statewide systems that help communities prepare for these changing conditions and give fire agencies the tools they need to respond quickly and safely.

Over the next five years, Fire Adapted Oregon will strengthen home hardening grant programs, advance data collection and integration, and continue building strategies that support vulnerable communities and structure loss reduction. Response Ready Oregon will continue investments in staffing grants, immediate response, and pre‑positioning. Long-term and stable funding will be essential as wildfire seasons intensify. Planned improvements include modernizing the fire defense board system, enhancing technology and communications systems, developing emerging tools for situational awareness, and building additional agreements with other states to support surge capacity.

About the Department of the State Fire Marshal 

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023. 

CORRECTION NOTICE: This alert has been corrected to clarify and accurately report that Armani Andrews went missing on June 17.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Armani Andrews, age 2, who went missing from Portland on June 17. They are believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Armani Andrews and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Armani.

Armani Andrews is suspected to be in the Portland area.

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

Child Legal Name: Armani Andrews

Child Preferred Name: Armani

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 2

Height: 24’ about

Weight: unknown

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: Black/African American Mixed race

Portland Police Bureau Case #PP185430

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2093182

Date Missing: 6/17/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Rose Haven, Multnomah County Central Library, SE Portland around 82^nd-103^rd

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and CODE Conduct Major Narcotics Enforcement Operation

Following several months-long investigations into the suspected distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl throughout Central Oregon, members of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, working alongside the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) Team, carried out a coordinated narcotics enforcement operation on June 24, 2026.

The investigation identified multiple individuals suspected of participating in the illegal distribution of controlled substances throughout Central Oregon. As part of the operation, detectives simultaneously served a search warrant at a residence in Jefferson County while deputies and detectives positioned themselves along U.S. Highway 97 to intercept a vehicle believed to be transporting a commercial quantity of narcotics.

During the execution of the search warrant, detectives secured the residence and attempted to take Elizabeth Chavez, age 40, of Madras, into custody. After being advised she was under arrest, Chavez attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by detectives. Investigators also recovered suspected methamphetamine from her person during the arrest. Additional evidence was collected during the execution of the search warrant and will continue to be evaluated as part of the ongoing investigation.

Detectives also located two juveniles inside the residence during the execution of the search warrant. Based on the investigation, investigators believe the children were being exposed to an environment where illegal narcotics were being distributed, and individuals involved in illegal drug activity were frequently present. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office remains committed to protecting children from environments where illegal drug activity places their safety and well-being at risk.

At the same time, deputies initiated a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle traveling south on U.S. Highway 97. The driver, Nicholas Speck, age 40, of Redmond, fled from law enforcement rather than yielding, initiating a vehicle pursuit. Deputies and CODE detectives worked together throughout the pursuit, successfully deploying spike strips to disable the suspect vehicle. During the spike strip deployment, the initial pursuing deputy's patrol vehicle was also disabled, requiring Sheriff Jason Pollock, who could assist with the operation, to assume the lead position in the pursuit. The pursuit continued for several more miles until the Sheriff performed a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuver, safely bringing the vehicle to a stop. All suspects in the vehicle were taken into custody and after the stop, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office narcotics K9 Keira with CODE, was deployed and alerted to the suspect vehicle. A search warrant was obtained, and the team located items that are related to the charges listed below.

As a result of the investigation, the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office has filed the following charges:

Brent Waldorf, 35, of Madras
• Delivery of Fentanyl
• Unlawful Possession of Fentanyl

During the booking process at the Jefferson County Adult Corrections Facility, corrections deputies recovered approximately 31.38 grams of suspected fentanyl after Waldorf was advised of Oregon law regarding introducing contraband into a correctional facility.

Elizabeth Chavez, 40, of Madras
• Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine involving more than 50 grams of methamphetamine

Additional allegations include unlawful possession of methamphetamine and attempting to flee from detectives while being taken into custody during the execution of the search warrant.

Nicholas Speck, 40, of Redmond
• Felony Attempting to Elude Police

• Felon in Possession of a Firearm

• Reckless Endangering

• Reckless Driving

Kenneth Crutcher, 47, of Redmond
• Felon in Possession of a Restricted Weapon

Investigators located an electro-muscular disruption device (Taser) on Crutcher during the operation. He was also lodged on a probation detainer.

This investigation is another example of what can be accomplished when local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies work together toward a common goal. The teamwork displayed by the members of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) Team, and our law enforcement partners resulted in the disruption of an alleged illegal drug distribution operation while keeping our deputies and our community safe. Fentanyl and methamphetamine continue to devastate families across Oregon, and we remain committed to aggressively investigating those responsible for bringing these dangerous drugs into our communities.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office also recognizes the outstanding work of the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) Team, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Jefferson County Sheriff's Office detectives, patrol deputies, corrections deputies, dispatchers, the Madras Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and our other regional law enforcement partners whose coordinated planning and execution made this operation successful.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are possible as investigators continue to review evidence collected during the operation.

Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity in Jefferson County is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office or the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement Team.

Date: June 26, 2026

Case #: 2026-00034282

Incident: Door Dash driver arrested for shooting gun following verbal dispute

Location: 19600 block of Poplar St.

Arrested: Tyler James Blaylock, 33-year-old Prineville Resident 

Offenses: Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Reckless Endangering, Menacing

At approximately 3:16 a.m. on Friday, June 26, Bend Police responded to multiple calls reporting the sound of shots being fired near Poplar St. One caller reported being shot at by a Door Dash driver as the driver left the area.

An investigation revealed the victim’s brother had ordered food through the Door Dash delivery app. As the victim waited for the delivery in a vehicle outside the home, they became upset over the approaching delivery driver’s careless driving through the neighborhood. A verbal dispute occurred and the delivery driver, later identified as 33-year-old Prineville resident Tyler James Blaylock, fired multiple shots as he drove away. Police located bullet casings at the scene consistent with the initial reports.

A Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office deputy located Blaylock’s vehicle driving northbound on Highway 97 near milepost 131 just before 4 a.m. The deputy and a Redmond police officer stopped the vehicle on Airport Way in Redmond and Blaylock was detained without incident. Blaylock was taken into custody by Bend Police on suspicion of unlawful use of a weapon, reckless endangering and menacing. He was held at Bend Police before being lodged at Deschutes County Jail.

No one was injured during this incident. This is an ongoing investigation. If you live in the incident area and have information to share, please call Bend Police Detectives at 541-693-6911. Bend Police thanks Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Redmond Police Department for their assistance.

SALEM – At its June 25-26, 2026 meeting, the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC or commission) recognized the service and contributions of two commissioners whose term had concluded: Commissioner Barbara Boyer and Commissioner Lianne Thompson. Commissioner Boyer served on the commission for a four-year term, bringing expertise in agriculture, working lands, and Oregon’s rural business opportunities. Commissioner Thompson, who also completed a four-year term, shared her enthusiasm and insight about working with diverse communities including Oregon federally recognized Tribes, as well as her broad experience as a coastal county commissioner. Both Boyer and Thompson were key stewards of some of the most relevant and impactful rulemaking in the commission’s recent history; reforming housing planning in the state of Oregon, defining cultural resources as they relate to Oregon’s Tribes, and the Farm Forest Modernization Project among many other accomplishments.

“Commissioner Boyer shared her vast experience with resource lands when there was an opportunity,” said Commission Chair, Allan Lazo. “And, she spoke with equal acumen to urban issues, including housing, economic development, and transportation.”

“Commissioner Thompson brought such a generous wisdom to LCDC conversations,” said DLCD Director, Brenda Bateman. “From economic development to rural issues, she always considered the impact of commission decisions on all Oregon communities.”

On June 16, the Oregon Senate confirmed Erin Skaar, Angel Falconer, and Stef Kondor to serve as commissioners on the LCDC, and reconfirmed LCDC Chair Allan Lazo to another four-year term as a metro-area representative

Commissioner Erin Skaar will represent Oregon’s coast. She is a seated Tillamook County Commissioner who has worked on housing at the local level with the Housing Commission and Community Development Departments in Tillamook County. Former Executive Director of Community Actions Resources Enterprises and founding member of the Tillamook County Housing Task Force, Commissioner Skaar currently serves as the President of the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) and leads its executive committee.

“As an advocate for Oregon counties and the president of the Association of Oregon Counties, I’m deeply motivated to elevate the economic, development, infrastructure, and resource needs of counties across Oregon,” stated Commissioner Skaar. “The opportunity to serve on the Land Conservation and Development Commission is a way to access the interconnected nature of our different government, leadership, and industry sectors through the lens of land use planning, which is something that unites all of Oregon.”

Commissioner Angel Falconer serves on the Forest Grove City Council and will represent the northern Willamette Valley. Prior to service on the City Council, Falconer was a Planning Commissioner for Forest Grove. She has held many volunteer and public service positions including on the Clackamas County Water Environment Services Advisory Committee, the board of Housing Land Advocates, and Milwaukie City Council. Her experience with local land use planning and implementation is extensive.  

“I’m focused on promoting abundant and affordable housing, supporting diverse and accessible transportation options, ensuring adequate land for jobs and industry, enhancing and protecting natural resources, and building resilient and sustainable infrastructure in Oregon,” shared Commissioner Falconer. “This position on the commission is both an honor and an opportunity to learn. My goal is to create opportunities for Oregonians to live healthy, connected, and prosperous lives.”

Commissioner Stef Kondor will fill the second of two metro-area positions on the Commission. She is the Executive Vice-President of Development for Related Northwest and has overseen the creation of more than 1,500 affordable housing units in her 13-year career in real estate development. Her work focuses on envisioning and developing affordable housing projects that support underserved communities while incorporating systems designed to help families thrive. She leads development efforts with an emphasis on collaboration and collective input. Previously, Commissioner Kondor served on the Portland Housing Advisory Commissions and the Portland Inclusionary Housing Stakeholder Committee.

“While the work of the commission and the land use goals are diverse, most of the decisions made by this body impact where people live. In this meeting, we learned a lot about coastal protection, natural resources protection, and economic development. Each of these issues has a relationship to housing,” said Commissioner Kondor. “Oregon’s housing and homelessness crisis has been an ongoing and desperate problem. As an affordable housing champion dedicated to building safe communities for families in need, I am excited to bring my experience in local leadership, finance, asset management, and development to these important conversations.”

Each of the incoming commissioners will serve a term that began on June 22, 2026, and will end June 21, 2030. In 2030, all three commissioners will be eligible for reappointment of another full four-year term.

DLCD Director Brenda Bateman is enthusiastic. “The housing expertise our new commissioners bring to the table is irrefutable,” she said. “As an agency, we want to do our part to meet housing needs across the state; I could not be more grateful to these talented commissioners for volunteering their service.”

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States has been indicted after investigators seized over 17.5 pounds of narcotics, firearms, and cash, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Baltazar Plata Bringas, 31, has been charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on May 26, 2026, investigators arrested Plata Bringas during a drug deal and found approximately 17 bags of methamphetamine in his car. In total, Plata Bringas had more than 8 kilograms of methamphetamine. Investigators searched Plata Bringas’ residence and found firearms and approximately $25,000.

Plata Bringas was arraigned on June 24, 2026, in federal court, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin is prosecuting the case.

This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Oregon Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

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

# # #

Video interviews and b-roll footage can be downloaded from Vimeo.

ALBANY, Ore. — More than 130 Oregon high school students from 17 counties, 28 schools and 24 cities spent the week at Camp Ready2Respond, a hands-on workforce development and disaster preparedness program designed to build skills, confidence and career pathways while strengthening Oregon’s disaster readiness.

The weeklong camp brought together students, educators, industry leaders, emergency management professionals and community partners at the Knife River Training Center in Albany. Students participated in a realistic disaster response and recovery scenario while gaining hands-on experience in construction, culinary arts, medical and safety operations, emergency communications and public information.

Students were organized into six villages: three builder villages, one culinary village, one medical and safety village and one communications village. Together, they worked on real-world response and recovery tasks that mirror the coordination needed after a disaster.

As of noon on Thursday, June 25, students were six hours ahead of schedule and had 10 emergency shelter units under construction. The shelters include four 8-by-8 units and six 8-by-12 units that will support disaster preparedness, temporary housing and community resilience efforts across Oregon.

“Camp Ready2Respond is a tremendous return on investment. For every dollar invested here, we are seeing five, six or seven dollars’ worth of impact in other areas. We are magnifying the taxpayer investment while building a group of young people who are ready to take care of themselves and take care of others,” said Jim Taylor, Production and Development Manager of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at Oregon Housing and Community Services.

Camp Ready2Respond demonstrates how public-private partnerships can prepare Oregon’s future workforce while helping communities become more resilient before, during and after disasters. Students had opportunities to build technical skills, practice teamwork, learn from professionals and explore careers connected to construction, manufacturing, emergency management, health and safety, communications and other fields.

“Many of the people ODHS serves, including older adults, people with disabilities and people living in poverty, are often the most impacted by disasters and fires. Programs like Camp Ready2Respond help Oregon respond more quickly so people can stay connected to their communities and have their functional needs met,” said Liesl Wendt, ODHS Director.

Camp Ready2Respond is supported by Team Oregon Build, the Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Housing and Community Services, the Oregon Department of Education, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Emergency Management and 14 partner organizations.

ORCHARD COMBAT TRAINING CENTER, Idaho — Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers demonstrated an innovative new approach to one of the Army's most dangerous battlefield tasks during annual training June 22, using a heavy-lift drone to remotely deliver and detonate a live Bangalore torpedo through a wire obstacle.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved the 2026–2028 Wildfire Mitigation Plans for Idaho Power (UM 2209), Portland General Electric (UM 2208), and Pacific Power (UM 2207). These plans detail how utilities will reduce utility wildfire risk, strengthen system resilience, and protect communities during increasingly severe wildfire seasons as risk models evolve in urban and rural areas to reflect changing conditions.

The Commission also adopted the PUC staff recommendations for additional improvement across the utilities’ programs to support greater transparency, stronger modeling practices, and further demonstration of cost-effective mitigation investments.

Each approved plan includes enhanced vegetation management, inspection and maintenance programs, system hardening, situational awareness tools, increased community outreach, and Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) procedures. PSPS events remain a last resort to reduce the risk of utility equipment igniting wildfires in hazardous weather conditions.

The wildfire mitigation plans are required under Senate Bill 762 (2021), which directs electric utilities in Oregon to identify areas of heightened wildfire risk within their service territories, develop measures to reduce ignition risks, and outline PSPS protocols during dangerous conditions.

“Today’s approval reflects the Commission’s continued commitment to ensuring Oregon’s electric utilities are planning responsibly, transparently, and proactively in the face of escalating wildfire risk,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “These plans help keep communities safer, and we encourage all Oregonians to take steps now to prepare for extreme weather and potential outages.”

Preparing for the 2026 wildfire season and potential PSPS events

• Register for emergency alerts from local and state authorities and sign up for outage notifications from your electric utility.
• Develop a household emergency plan and make sure all family members understand evacuation procedures.
• Create defensible space around your home by reducing vegetation and other fuels.
• Be two-week ready with essential supplies, including food, water, medications, batteries, and pet needs.
• Keep phones and medical devices fully charged ahead of high-risk weather.
• Ensure your utility account information is up to date so you can receive emergency notifications.
• Customers who rely on electricity for medical needs should contact their utility about medical certification programs and consider backup power options.

During an outage or PSPS event:

• Report outages to your utility and stay far away from downed power lines.
• Use flashlights instead of candles and operate generators outdoors and away from buildings.
• Unplug appliances except refrigerators and freezers to protect against power surge damage.
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults or individuals with access or functional needs.
• Stay cool by keeping blinds closed, staying hydrated, and accessing community cooling spaces if needed.

PUC Vegetation Management Program

In addition to reviewing wildfire mitigation plans, the PUC conducts independent inspections of utility infrastructure and vegetation management practices in high fire risk areas. The PUC evaluates whether electric utilities are maintaining proper vegetation clearances, addressing hazards promptly, and meeting statewide and national safety standards. These inspections ensure accountability and contribute to reducing wildfire ignition risk.

Learn more about wildfire preparedness at wildfire.oregon.gov. 

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UM 2207, UM 2208, UM 2209

SALEM, Oregon—Oregon State Parks encourages parkgoers to leave the fireworks to the professionals for Fourth of July celebrations. Fireworks and explosives are strictly prohibited within Oregon State Parks and the entire ocean shore. However, from the coast to the Snake River, nearby cities and towns have local celebrations and fireworks shows to attend.

Fireworks pose a significant danger to visitors, wildlife, structures and the natural landscape particularly in crowded areas where high winds and flammable vegetation increase the inherent risks of fireworks.

“Just one rogue spark can create a wildfire,” said OPRD Emergency Manager Jamen Lee. “We work closely with our local partners to minimize the risk of fires and ask that visitors follow any fire restrictions.”

Each year, volunteers collect trash following the Fourth of July resulting in thousands of pounds of debris. One volunteer group alone collected 231 pounds of trash from just four beaches around Lincoln City – that’s nearly 60 pound per beach!

“We ask that visitors respect fireworks restrictions and clean up after their celebrations to protect Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore resource coordinator at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

While education remains the primary focus for rule enforcement at Oregon State Parks, rangers do have the authority to issue citations. Staff at Oregon State Parks ask that visitors enjoy the holiday responsibly and leave fireworks and explosives at home.

OPRD also encourages visitors to know before they go when it comes to fire restrictions during this wildfire season. Fire restrictions are coordinated with local and state fire districts. Certain parts of the coast also do not allow fires on beaches. Learn more on our website.

Resources:

• OPRD beach safety web page.
• OPRD beach fire safety video (YouTube).
• Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks:
  • Oregon Coast.
  • Willamette Valley.
  • Central Oregon.
  • Eastern Oregon.
  • Southern Oregon.

Bend, Ore. -- The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office moves forward with a balanced budget for Fiscal Year 2026–27, made possible by identifying roughly $1 million in reduced costs and operational efficiencies. That played a significant role in balancing the budget without reducing core public safety services.

These expense reductions came from reviewing every line of the budget and finding smarter, more cost-effective ways to do business. Sheriff Ty Rupert remains committed to saving money, improving efficiency, and being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars.

“We know families and businesses are watching their budgets closely right now, and we’re doing the same,” said Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. “Identifying $1 million in reduced costs took careful work, but it reflects our commitment to running a cost-effective and efficient Sheriff’s Office.”

One example is a new effort to pay certain vendors within 10 days of receiving an invoice. In return, those vendors agree to reduce their prices by 1 to 10 percent. Over time, these small discounts add up to meaningful savings for taxpayers. As the Sheriff notes, every penny matters when you work for the people.

Other efficiencies came from delaying or reducing lower-priority expenses, streamlining internal processes, and finding more cost-effective ways to manage staffing, equipment, and technology needs.

The FY26–27 budget totals $72.2 million and covers the Sheriff’s Office personnel, day-to-day operations, necessary equipment, and capital projects. Even with rising costs for medical care in the jail, technology upgrades, and public safety equipment, the Sheriff’s Office maintained a balanced budget by tightening spending elsewhere.

Sheriff Rupert says the goal is simple: provide high-quality public safety services while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.

“Our team worked hard to identify real, meaningful savings without compromising the safety of the community. By taking a closer look at how we spend every dollar, we built a balanced budget that strengthens our services and shows we’re committed to being good stewards of public resources,” explained Sheriff Rupert.

The Sheriff’s Office will continue looking for long-term savings and smart operational improvements to serve the community as effectively and responsibly as possible.

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This year’s July 4 Pilot Butte public fireworks display presented by Subaru of Bend will commence at approximately 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Community members will have limited access to Pilot Butte State Park in Bend from July 1-5 as preparations are made for the July 4 public fireworks display.

Bend Fire & Rescue, in collaboration with the Oregon State Parks Department, asks that the community observe the restrictions in place for everyone’s safety:

• The summit and the access road to the summit will close to all visitors beginning at 9:30 p.m. on June 30 through the afternoon of July 5 following clean-up operations.
• All trails and roadways except for the summit, will be accessible to pedestrians only beginning at 10 p.m. on June 30 through July 3.
• Full closure of all trails and roadways begins July 4 through the afternoon of July 5 following clean-up operations.
• The main parking area at the base of Pilot Butte, off Linea Drive, will be open during the fireworks show. Please do not block emergency access roads or public and private streets, as this can delay a response to an emergency.
• Pets are not permitted in the park during the show.

Signs, barricades and security will be placed at the closure points on the butte. For the safety of all, please respect the closed areas and do not attempt entry.

Bend Fire and Oregon State Parks would like to recognize and thank the local Boy Scout Troops that help clean the butte each year after the display. Also, a huge thank you to the local fire crews from the U.S. Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry for assisting with the fire safety on the butte during the display. Without their support each year, this show would not be possible.

For more information about the display and butte preparations, please contact Oregon State Parks at (541) 388-6055 or Bend Fire at (541) 322-6386.

Personal Fireworks Are Not Permitted in Bend

Bend Fire also reminds the community that the use and sale of fireworks is not allowed in Bend. The July 4 public display at Pilot Butte is permitted by the Oregon State Fire Marshal and managed by professionals. For information on fireworks laws, permitting and reporting, please visit bendoregon.gov/fireworks.

June 24, 2026-REDMOND,OR- Redmond Fire & Rescue (RF&R) announces details for the memorial service honoring Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle. The service will be held at the Deschutes County Fairground Events Center on July 11th at 11am. The service is open to the public and will also be live streamed for those unable to attend in person.

Live Stream Access:
https://tinyurl.com/KienzleMemorial

Community members are invited to attend the memorial service or participate by observing the family escort along the route. There will be no formal processional with outside agencies; however, agencies are encouraged to attend as a show of support.

• Emergency response agencies are welcome to bring apparatus and staff vehicles.
• A designated parking area will be available for emergency vehicles at the Fairgrounds

Redmond Fire & Rescue apparatus will escort the family to the memorial service along the following route:

• Route: 6th Street (Maple → Highland), then Highway 97 to the Yew Avenue exit
• Time: Escort will begin moving at approximately 10:00 AM

Community members wishing to pay their respects without attending the service are encouraged to line the route along SW 6th Street, safely.

Media representatives are welcome to capture footage and photos of the escort procession as it enters the fairgrounds complex on Mt. Jefferson Drive.

Out of respect for the family:

• Media are asked not to capture images or video of family members
• Media will not be permitted inside the memorial venue

Donations

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made in honor of Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle to the following organizations:

• Redmond Firefighter’s Foundation
  PO Box 2054
  Redmond, OR 97756
  (Please note “Kienzle Memorial” on checks)
• Corvallis Firefighter’s Foundation
• Obliteride Team Kienzle Fundraiser
  Supporting Dr. Cassiday’s T-Cell ALL cancer research

Redmond Fire & Rescue extends its gratitude to the community, partner agencies, and supporters for their compassion and respect during this time as we honor and remember Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Pacific Power to host town hall on recent outages in Madras

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Klamath Falls, Oregon, man pleaded guilty on Monday for illegally distributing explosive devices, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Jason Edward Lowery, 52, pleaded guilty to distribution of explosives by a non-licensee.

According to court documents, in June 2025, Lowery sold multiple illegal M-type explosive devices at his residence and at his place of business in Klamath Falls. Pursuant to a search warrant at Lowery’s residence, business, and vehicle, investigators seized over 200 homemade explosive devices and materials for constructing more explosives. Police seized a destructive device that had a large amount of explosive powder and nails strapped to it. At Lowery’s residence, police also seized firearms and methamphetamine. Lowery’s phone revealed texts showing he was selling devices to multiple individuals.

On July 17, 2025, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a two-count indictment charging Lowery with distribution of explosives by a non-licensee and manufacture of explosives by a non-licensee.

Lowery faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on October 8, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Lowery has agreed to forfeit any criminally-derived proceeds and property used to facilitate his crimes identified by the government prior to sentencing.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Oregon State Police are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith R. Harper is prosecuting the case.

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Salem – HealthCare.gov has opened a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for people who were enrolled in an Innovative Partners or American Collective health plan at any time during 2026, even if the plan has already been canceled.

The Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Innovative Partners, LP (doing business as Innovative Health Plan and Healthcare Plan) and American Collective, LP (doing business as ACLP Health Plan) for deceptively marketing noncomprehensive medical discount memberships and limited benefit plans as comprehensive insurance or preferred provider organization (PPO).

The SEP started June 11, 2026, and runs through Aug. 10, 2026. The SEP allows affected individuals and families to transition into comprehensive Marketplace coverage. They can find coverage by visiting HealthCare.gov.

If you have issues getting new health insurance, call HealthCare.gov at 800-318-2596 (toll-free) and tell them you are an Innovative Partners or American Collective customer and seeking new coverage. Your Marketplace coverage will generally begin on the first day of the month after you select a plan. To activate your coverage, you must pay your first premium.

You could qualify for an earlier effective date for your Marketplace plan; however, you would need to pay your first month’s premium and premiums for previous months for coverage to start.

The court has appointed a receiver in the case – Paul Lopez from Tripp Scott. The Innovative Receiver website has more information, including consumer victim forms and updates. People can also email eceiver@trippscott.com">innovativereceiver@trippscott.com.

It is important to visit HealthCare.gov or work with an Oregon licensed agent in obtaining coverage. Get free local help from a licensed Oregon insurance agent who can help you understand your options and enroll in coverage by visiting OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp. Put in your ZIP code and click Marketplace (HealthCare.gov). Agents will have an “A” next to their name. There is also assistance available from community partners.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (23 June 2026) – On Monday, June 22, 2026, at 10:07 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash on Highway 97 near milepost 200 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Freightliner commercial motor vehicle, operated by Larry Dotson (44) of Vicksburg (MS), was traveling southbound on Hwy. 97 near Chemult when it struck a pedestrian, Scott Henry Beggio (67) of Klamath Falls, who was standing in the southbound lane of travel. The pedestrian is believed to have been in the roadway attempting to catch his dog, which had run into the road.

The pedestrian (Beggio) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Dotson) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, Chemult Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Prineville Appoints Shane Wilson as Chief of Police

(PRINEVILLE, Ore.) — The City of Prineville has appointed Shane Wilson as its next Police Chief.

Wilson has served in interim leadership roles within the Prineville Police Department, overseeing department operations and day-to-day services to the community. 

Wilson joined the Prineville Police Department in 2015. During his tenure, he has served as a police officer, sergeant, detective sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and interim chief. Prior to joining the department, he began his law enforcement career in Southern Oregon as a reserve officer and police officer with the City of Talent.

In addition to his supervisory and leadership responsibilities, Wilson has served as a field training officer, training coordinator, drug recognition expert, background investigator, reserve officer program coordinator, and instructor for the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST). He has also completed SWAT school and holds a DPSST management certification.

“Since joining the department in 2015, Shane has served in a variety of roles and taken on increasing leadership responsibilities," said City Manager Steve Forrester. "He understands our community and has demonstrated the experience and leadership needed to lead the department."

"It’s a privilege to serve our community," Wilson said. "I look forward to continuing to work alongside our officers and staff as we support and respond to the needs of Prineville.”

Wilson's appointment is effective July 1, 2026.

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About the City of Prineville:

Located east of the Cascade mountains in Oregon’s high desert, the City of Prineville is a resurgent rural community that has preserved its small-town, ranching roots and Western lifestyle while embracing smart growth in a business-friendly environment. With a population of just over 11,900 residents, the county seat of Crook County attracts a diversity of business and lifestyle interests, including tech giants Meta and Apple, recreational enthusiasts, and a thriving agricultural industry. Incorporated in 1880, City of Prineville operates the oldest continuously running municipal short line railway in the U.S., as well as a public golf course. Prineville boasts numerous recreational assets, including the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River, and remains a popular destination for anglers and hunters. For more information on City services and programs visit cityofprineville.com.

PORTLAND, Ore.— Today, U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford announced criminal charges against two defendants in connection with various schemes to defraud Medicare, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Veterans Health Administration, and private insurance companies. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

“Health care fraud inflates costs, restricts access to critical services, and siphons taxpayer dollars from senior citizens, people with disabilities, low-income families, veterans, and others who rely on these federal programs,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford. “Strong coordination among local, state, national, and international partners is essential to protecting the integrity of our health care system and ensuring those who exploit it are held accountable.”

“Every dollar saved by investigating fraud helps ensure VA programs remain sustainable for the veterans who depend on them,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Western Pacific Field Office (“VA OIG”). “The VA OIG is committed to investigating those who exploit VA programs and thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General for their collaboration to identify, investigate, and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse.”

The following individuals were charged in the District of Oregon:

• Jahangeer Ali, 34, a citizen of Pakistan, was charged by information with health care fraud. As alleged in court documents, Ali owned Oregon Clinical Laboratory, a company that submitted fraudulent claims of genetic testing to Medicare Advantage plans resulting in a loss of over $15 million. The beneficiaries and physicians listed on the fraudulent claims had never heard of Oregon Clinical Laboratory and the genetic testing was never provided. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Ho and Bryan Chinwuba.

• Mehrdad Gerami, 67, of Coos Bay, Oregon, was charged by information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with medical sleep study testing resulting in a loss of at least $2,124,363.41. As alleged in the information, Gerami owned and operated Coastal Diagnostic Testing Group and Coastal Diagnostic, both of which engaged in submitting fraudulent claims to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the Veterans Health Administration, and private insurance companies for sleep tests allegedly conducted in office when, in fact, they were conducted either at home or not at all. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh.

The charges are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.  

Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including:

• Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
• 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
• Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
• 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.

The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virigina participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today.

Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.

The District of Oregon worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division and the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Takedown: HHS-OIG, the FBI, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Members of the media are invited to attend a special media availability for Camp Ready2Respond, a hands-on workforce development and disaster preparedness program that gives Oregon high school students real-world experience in disaster response, recovery and community resilience.

Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026

Time: 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Location: Knife River Training Center, 35973 Kennel Road SE, Albany, Oregon

Camp Ready2Respond brings together students, educators, industry leaders, emergency management professionals and community partners for an immersive experience focused on disaster preparedness, response, recovery and career pathways.

During the media availability, reporters will have the opportunity to:

• Tour the camp and observe disaster simulation activities

• Interview students participating in hands-on training exercises

• Speak with Camp Ready2Respond organizers and partner organizations

• Interview elected officials and state agency leaders about workforce development, disaster readiness and community resilience

• Learn how students are earning industry-recognized certifications and developing skills in construction, manufacturing, emergency management, public information, culinary arts and other career pathways

• View student-built projects that will support disaster preparedness, temporary housing and community resilience efforts across Oregon

Camp Ready2Respond shows how public-private partnerships can help prepare Oregon’s future workforce while strengthening the state’s disaster readiness and long-term community resilience.

Media availability schedule

12:30 p.m. Media arrive
12:35 to 1 p.m. Media tours of Camp Ready2Respond
1 to 1:20 p.m. Brief remarks from Camp organizers and partners
1:20 to 2 p.m. Individual media interviews with available camp leaders, students, state agency leaders and partners. Elected officials may also be available for interviews. 

RSVP: To help us plan adequate space and ensure media access is coordinated with student activities, please RSVP here: https://forms.gle/hbCXgkkXiY8cJEMU8 

Logistics and parking

Look for the green signs with a yellow arrow (example attached). Please use the second entrance to the parking lot and park near the large gravel pile, as shown in the attached photo. After parking, check in at the registration tent to receive a visitor badge.

The event site includes dirt and gravel surfaces, so please dress for outdoor conditions. Closed-toe shoes are required for anyone entering the area where students are building structures. Additional personal protective equipment will be provided on site.

We look forward to welcoming media to see Oregon’s next generation of responders, builders and leaders in action.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Beaverton, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison last Wednesday for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and for illegally possessing a firearm as a felon.

Roberto Ochoa-Vergara, 29, was sentenced to a total of 120 months in federal prison and a total of four years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on February 7, 2025, Ochoa-Vergara and a co-conspirator sold 128 grams of fentanyl out of the trunk of Ochoa-Vergara’s car. On March 5, 2025, Ochoa-Vergara sold almost 400 grams of fentanyl and a pistol.

On March 7, 2025, a Hillsboro Police Department officer found Ochoa-Vergara unconscious, slumped over while sitting in the passenger seat of a vehicle partially blocking the road. A search of Ochoa-Vergara and the vehicle revealed over $10,000 in cash, three bags totaling over 300 grams of fentanyl powder, and small bags containing cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.

Pursuant to a search warrant of Ochoa-Vergara’s residence, investigators found a pistol and over one kilogram of fentanyl powder.

On March 18, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Ochoa-Vergara with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and felon in possession of a firearm.  On April 2, 2026, Ochoa-Vergara pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and felon in possession of a firearm.

On August 12, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned another indictment charging Ochoa-Vergara, along with his co-conspirators, with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and felon in possession of a firearm.

On April 2, 2026, Ochoa-Vergara pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment charging possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated these cases, with assistance from the Hillsboro Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Bockelman prosecuted the cases.

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

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SALEM, Ore. – With fireworks sales beginning Today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2026 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks, whether celebrating at home or traveling.

“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Assistant Chief Deputy Mark Johnston said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

Fireworks safety and legal reminders

Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

• Public lands and parks
• National parks and forests
• Bureau of Land Management lands
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
• Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
• Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

• Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
• Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
• Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
• Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.

Illegal fireworks and consequences

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

Learn more

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.

For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL

Since 1917, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The agency works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office after becoming an independent state agency in 2023.

Bend, Ore. – After last week’s brushfire in Alfalfa threatened homes and led to several evacuation notices, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is urging community members to stay alert and prepare for wildfire season.

It’s important to understand Oregon’s three emergency evacuation levels—Level 1: Be Ready, Level 2: Be Set, and Level 3: Go Now. These notices can change quickly, and knowing how to respond helps protect you, your property, and first responders. During wildfire season, evacuation notices are issued whenever a brush fire or wildfire threatens homes, property, or businesses. 

Evacuation Levels at a Glance:

• Level 1 – Be Ready: There is potential danger in the area. Prepare your emergency plan and go-kit and stay alert for changing conditions.
• Level 2 – Be Set: Significant danger is nearby. You should be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Those who need extra time should evacuate now.
• Level 3 – Go Now: Danger is imminent. Leave immediately. Do not delay for any reason, including packing or attempting to prepare your home.

The Sheriff's Office is also reminding everyone who lives in Deschutes County to sign up for Deschutes Alerts, the county’s official emergency notification system. After signing up, you’ll receive alerts for locations you’ve registered.

“These notifications are not limited to wildfires. They are used for all types of emergencies that may affect neighborhoods, workplaces, and the community, including hazardous-materials incidents, law-enforcement activity, flooding, evacuations, and more,” explains Ben Duda, Emergency Manager for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. “Signing up is quick, free, and one of the most important steps you can take to stay informed during fast‑moving events.”

When you register for Deschutes Alerts, you’ll only receive notifications about emergencies that impact the specific locations you choose—such as your home, workplace, or other places you care about. If you want to stay updated on other areas of the county, like where your friends or family live, you can easily add multiple locations to your profile.

Resources

• For more information on Deschutes Alerts, visit: www.deschutesalerts.org
• Wildfire preparedness resources are available at: https://wildfire.oregon.gov/

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DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (23 June 2026) – On Friday, June 19, 2026, at 12:05 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 126 near milepost 103.5 in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black GMC Sierra pulling a tandem axle dump trailer, operated by Luis Alberto Santos Milan (26) of Bend, was traveling westbound on Highway 126 near Redmond when it attempted to avoid slowing traffic and crossed into the eastbound travel lane. An eastbound gray Honda Accord, operated by Christopher Richard Pettit (58) of Gilchrist, collided head-on with the dump trailer in the eastbound travel lane.   

A passenger in the Honda, Michelle Renee Pettit (59) of Gilchrist, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Honda (Christopher Pettit) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the GMC (Santos Milan) was reportedly not injured. Santos Milan remained on-scene and cooperated with the investigation.

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

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, local fire and EMS, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

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

With more than 160 workshops and sessions, the Oregon Governor’s Occupational Safety and Health (GOSH) Conference will be held March 1-4, 2027, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. The event provides knowledge, training, and tools across industries to strengthen protection of workers from hazards and to drive down business costs.

The event is the largest workplace health and safety conference in the Pacific Northwest and one of the largest in the United States. It welcomes everyone from safety committee members and line supervisors to health and safety professionals, and labor and business leaders. It connects people, invites sponsorships, and creates space for exhibitors. The goal is to equip attendees with knowledge and skills so they can build strong workplace safety and health programs.

Registration for the conference is expected to open in early 2027, but you can participate in, and support, the GOSH Conference now. Nominations are being accepted for the 2027 GOSH Awards. The awards will honor organizations and people who make exceptional contributions to workplace safety and health. Award nominations are due Oct. 12, 2026.

You can also learn about the event’s keynote speaker, Hoan Do, an international presenter, author, and finalist on NBC’s hit show “American Ninja Warrior.” Do will deliver a high-energy, insight-filled presentation focused on turning obstacles into opportunities. Attendees will learn how to reframe setbacks, stack the odds in their favor, and continuously improve, both as individuals and as teams.

Learn more about Do by visiting the GOSH website’s keynote speaker page.

Sponsorship opportunities to support the 2027 GOSH Conference are available, too. And the conference will feature the Columbia Forklift Challenge, which invites trained forklift drivers to compete in an obstacle course to highlight their skills – and the importance of forklift safety.

You can stay updated about the conference – including registration, exhibits, the forklift challenge, and other information – by visiting the event’s website. You can also get connected to GOSH updates by signing up to receive emails.

The conference is a collaborative effort by the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), the Columbia-Willamette Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals, and labor and businesses in Oregon and southwest Washington.

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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.

(TUALATIN, Ore.) – The tree-killing emerald ash borer (EAB) pest has been confirmed in at least three new Willamette Valley communities this month – in a shopping center parking lot just east of I-5 in Tualatin, in a parking lot right outside Newberg, and at a private residence in Silverton.

The new detections are within the existing EAB quarantine zone covering the five counties where this pest has been found so far. Counties within the quarantined zone are Clackamas, Marion, Multnomah, Washington and Yamhill. By order of the Oregon Department of Agriculture, tree material from ash, olive, and white fringetree must remain within quarantined counties, along with firewood from any hardwood tree.

Oregon Department of Forestry EAB Support Specialist Matt Mills said, “we have long known that EAB would spread from infested sites to nearby areas, so these new detections are not unexpected. Experience from other states shows that four to five years or so after first being detected EAB spreads from pockets of infested ash trees and becomes much more widespread over an entire county or metropolitan area.”

All three reports were made by private individuals who recognized ash trees that were showing signs of EAB infestation and knew to report them on the invasive species hotline at https://oregoninvasiveshotline.org.

Kat Bethea, also an EAB Support Specialist with the Oregon Department of Forestry, said this shows the success of four years of outreach to the public in northwest Oregon with information about EAB and what to expect and where to report sightings.

“We are thankful that people are paying attention to the health of ash trees around them and letting us know when signs point to a possible EAB infestation,” Bethea said.

Bethea added that ODF has sent messages to officials in the affected towns and those in surrounding communities to let them know to keep a close eye on ash trees in their community for signs of EAB.

What the public can do

“This is a good time to identify any ash trees on your property. Decide which ones, if any, you want to keep and contact a licensed pesticide applicator to begin protective treatment with a systemically injected insecticide,” said Bethea.

Mills said if homeowners plan to remove ash trees already in poor condition, then they should wait until mid-October when adult EAB beetles are no longer flying. “Pre-emptive removal of such trees will allow them to replant with trees that aren’t vulnerable,” he said. “This will start restoring tree canopy and also spreads out the cost of removals. Simply waiting for EAB to start killing trees in your town can become overwhelming in a short period of time and costly.”

Mills said ash trees quickly become brittle and hazardous to climb or work under once they are killed.

“Removal of a dead or rapidly dying ash tree is more dangerous and costly than when it is still alive. That’s why in newly infested areas or areas nearby it’s a best practice to pre-emptively remove any ash trees that are along streets or in parks or yards, and which are in poor condition or planted in the wrong place,” he said.

Mills added that although EAB is spreading naturally through the northern Willamette Valley, people moving firewood more than 10 to 15 miles from an EAB-infested tree risk taking the pest into distant, uninfested areas. “Firewood being moved is a known way EAB is able to travel farther and spread faster than it could on its own. That is why the Oregon Department of Agriculture doesn’t allow hardwood firewood to be moved from quarantined zones.”

For more information on how to identify ash trees or EAB, what the signs of infestation are, and what can be done in response to an infestation, please visit www.OregonEAB.com.

Newberg

The pest was first reported in Yamhill County only two years ago. At that time, a single beetle was found on the county’s northern border with Washington County. This June the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Max Ragozzino investigated a report called in to the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline. Ragozzino found two trees in a parking lot were heavily infested with EAB. Six others appear to be only lightly infested so far.

Tualatin

After a report came to the hotline about ash trees in a commercial parking lot near I-5 with telltale signs of EAB, ODF was able to visit and confirm that a number of the trees were infested with EAB. The location is especially concerning because it is only about a mile from the Tualatin River, whose banks are shaded by large numbers of Oregon ash.

City of Tualatin Parks Maintenance Manager Tom Steiger states that the city has been following the movement of the emerald ash borer, conducting tests within the city, and learning about treatment and mitigation measures. Additionally, the city has an inventory of where ash trees are located as street trees, and has funding budgeted for a survey along the banks of the Tualatin River and other natural areas, which can help inform next steps in the approach to management and replacement of ash trees within the city.

Silverton

A private pesticide applicator coming to treat an ash tree in a residential neighborhood on the north side of town reported signs of EAB in the tree, which ODF later confirmed. A second report has since come in as well, Mills said.

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