FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Contact:

ta.L.FRIASBEDOLLA@odf.oregon.gov%3e">Marta Frias-Bedolla, committee assistant

SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video link found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Riparian Pilot Study – updates
• FERNS Notification – discussion of Compliance Monitoring Program message
• Mount Hood Environmental (MHE) – updates on Roads and Steep Slopes projects
• Next steps: looking ahead to future meetings

At the discretion of staff, the order of agenda items may change to maintain meeting flow.   

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing ta.L.FRIASBEDOLLA@odf.oregon.gov%3e">Marta Frias-Bedolla.

The CMPC Committee assists efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Brittan Arrington, age 13, a child in foster care who went missing from Gresham on July 22. Brittan is believed to be in danger.

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

Brittan is known to frequent 82^nd Ave in Hillsboro. 

Name: Brittan Arrington  
Pronouns: she/her
Date of birth: August 16, 2011
Height: 5-foot-4
Weight: 125 pounds
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Blonde/dyed black

Other identifying information: nose piercing

Law Enforcement Agency Case # PG 25-29955
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2056772 

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 when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report 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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UPDATE (July 24, 2025): Investigators are asking witnesses to the pursuit or crash to contact OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please refer to case number: SP25-343407. 
 

COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ore. (July 21, 2025) — The Oregon State Police is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Sunday in Columbia County.

On Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office was in pursuit of a white Kia Optima on Canaan Road near Highway 30 in Deer Island. The suspect, identified as Kyle Davis Graham, 47, lost control of the vehicle, drove off the roadway, and down an embankment before coming to rest near Merrill Creek. The armed suspect was confronted by an officer, and shots were fired, striking Graham. Additional officers from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Rainier Police Department arrived on the scene. Despite life-saving measures by officers and medics, the suspect died at the scene.

No officers were injured during the incident.

The suspect had also eluded officers from the Washington State Patrol on July 19, 2025, across the Lewis and Clark Bridge from Washington into Oregon.

The involved officer, Deputy Seann Luedke of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, has been placed on administrative leave per standard protocol. Deputy Luedke has been with the department for three years and has prior Oregon law enforcement experience.

The Columbia County Use of Deadly Physical Force Plan under Senate Bill 111 has been initiated for this incident. Oregon State Police is conducting the primary investigation under the guidance of the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office. Any further information will be released by the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office at the conclusion of the investigation.

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

SALEM, Ore.– Governor Kotek’s office announced today that FEMA has made federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oregon to support recovery efforts following severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that struck Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties from March 13–20, 2025. 

The assistance includes Public Assistance funding on a cost-sharing basis for state, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations, to aid in emergency response and infrastructure recovery.  

While requested, Harney County was not included in this declaration by FEMA. However, state leaders recognize the situation in Harney was especially severe. The flooding breached levees and led to the failure of the only wastewater system serving the City of Burns and the Burns Paiute Tribe. Sewage-contaminated floodwaters caused serious public health hazards, damaged homes, and forced extended evacuations.  

As a result, State Legislators provided statutory funding during the 2025 Legislative Session for Harney to minimize flooding through repair and improvement of infrastructure. This work will include work on dikes, levees, dredging and vegetation thinning along waterways.  

“Our staff worked tirelessly, compiling damage assessments, coordinating with local jurisdictions, and ensuring every detail was accounted for,” Oregon Department of Emergency Management Director Erin McMahon said. “Their dedication and advocacy for Oregon played a crucial role in securing this declaration and helping communities get needed assistance.” 

John F. Harrison, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO), has been appointed to aid in the recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made if further assessments warrant expanded assistance. Harrison recently severed as the Oregon FCO for the 2024 Wildfire recovery.  

Understanding Federal Assistance  

Public Assistance (PA) is one of two main types of recovery dollars FEMA offers communities after a disaster. The other is Individual Assistance (IA). Neither are meant to help people cover the total cost of replacing their homes. Public Assistance is to help replace public infrastructure damaged by the disaster and recover the cost of responding to it.  

Individual Assistance (IA) has a higher overall damage cost threshold than Public Assistance and acts as a supplement to insurance, savings or loans for individuals whose property is damaged or destroyed. Far fewer disasters qualify for Individual Assistance because the overall devastation has to be far greater and more widespread, and it was never meant to pay replacement costs. 

Federal and State Assistance Available Currently for Oregon Communities Recovering from Floods 

• Public Assistance: funding for emergency work and repair or replacement of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and utilities. 
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans: low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits to cover physical damage and economic injury. People can apply online by visiting https://lending.sba.gov. 
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Emergency Conservation Program (ECP): emergency funding and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to rehabilitate farmland and conservation structures damaged by natural disasters and implement emergency water conservation measures in periods of severe drought. More information is available on this Fact Sheet or visit the USDA website. 
• Oregon Legislature statutory funding: for Harney to minimize flooding through repair and improvement of infrastructure.  

Damage Impacts in Coos, Curry, Douglas and Harney Counties 

• Coos County: floodwaters caused road failures and prompted water rescues. Officials noted damage levels not seen since the 1960s. 
• Curry County: landslides and mudslides disrupted access and damaged infrastructure. SBA loans and other federal resources were requested to support recovery. 
• Douglas County: highway 138 suffered at least 10 landslides, with major damage to drainage systems and roadways. Homes and businesses were inundated, and evacuations were widespread. 
• Harney County: breached levees and led to the failure of the only wastewater system serving the City of Burns and the Burns Paiute Tribe. Sewage-contaminated floodwaters caused serious public health hazards, damaged homes, and forced extended evacuations. 

How to Make Sure Your Home is Insured for Flooding 

Flood insurance provides financial protection against damage caused by flooding, which is not typically covered under standard homeowners or renters' insurance policies. It’s a separate policy offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers, and it covers things like structural damage to your home and loss of personal belongings.  

Because flood risk varies by location, coverage and rates are based on your property's elevation, flood zone, and more. Many people only discover it's excluded after it's too late—so it's worth checking before the storm rolls in. Oregon’s Division of Financial Regulation has a good resource page to help the public navigate flood insurance. 

La Pine, Ore. – For the second time in recent weeks, a brush fire broke out near the transient camp on BLM land off Darlene Way and Rosland Road in La Pine. The Jolene Fire started around 2:40pm Wednesday, July 23rd. It was quickly contained thanks to the rapid response of Lt. Josh Spano, DCSO deputies, La Pine Fire District, and fire crews from the U.S. Forest Service.

No structures or vehicles were damaged.

Investigators believe the fire was human-caused, and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a person of interest. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area is asked to call the non-emergency line at (541) 693-6911.

Video: Courtesy of Lt. Josh Spano, DCSO: https://youtube.com/shorts/BM89B6AnyHo?feature=share

July 24, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Upper Klamath Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Upper Klamath Lake due to the presence of microcystin above recreational use values for human exposure. The lake is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Upper Klamath Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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UPDATE: Updated to reflect that the crash occurred on Saturday, July 12, 2025. 
 

TILLAMOOK COUNTY, Ore. 23 July 2025 – On Saturday, July 12, 2025, at approximately 3:15 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle hit-and-run fatal crash on Highway 18 in Tillamook County near Grand Ronde.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a white Honda Civic, operated by Alejandro Christopher Velazquez Lopez (34) of Tillamook, was traveling eastbound on Highway 18 near milepost 14. The Honda left the travel lane and entered the eastbound shoulder, where a black Nissan Altima with a flat tire was parked. Three 17-year-old males were outside the Nissan, changing the flat tire, when the Honda left the roadway and struck all three juveniles. The Honda did not stop and continued driving eastbound on the highway.
 

All three male juveniles were transported to area hospitals with serious injuries. A 17-year-old female passenger was inside the Nissan at the time of the crash and was not injured.

OSP Major Crime Section detectives were immediately called to investigate and locate the operator of the Honda.

On July 14, 2025, OSP investigators were notified that one of the 17-year-old males died as a result of injuries sustained during the crash.

The operator of the Honda (Lopez) is believed to have left the country and there is an active warrant for his arrest.

The highway was impacted for approximately 11.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Tribal Police, 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, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) wants to better understand the public’s values and priorities for the future of state parks through a new survey as it launches a strategic initiative to reimagine how parks are funded, operated and supported.

OPRD faces a potential 14% budget shortfall for park operations by 2027 even with recent fee increases. The gap is due to increasing costs, the impact of higher visitation and changes in lottery funds. The strategic initiative will work to address that shortfall before 2027.

“For more than a century, Oregon’s parks have been a source of pride, joy, and connection for communities across the state,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “But the way we fund the system has not kept up with how Oregonians use and value it today. We’re not waiting for the crisis—we’re planning ahead to build a more resilient and relevant park system.”

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback from visitors and potential visitors about their priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

The survey is open to everyone and will help inform decisions about the future of state parks. Those who complete the survey have the option of entering a drawing for a free Oregon State Parks annual parking permit. 

Oregon State Parks continues to experience record visitation with more than 56.6 million estimated visits in 2024. It is one of the most visited park systems in the country.

This level of use significantly increases wear and tear on aging park infrastructure, driving up maintenance needs and long-term operational costs.

Parks’ funding comes from three main sources. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from the agency’s share of recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. Oregon State Park operations is not funded by general fund taxes.

“We already operate leanly, but we’re also taking a hard look at costs and spending decisions as we plan the future. We’re building new partnerships with Oregon businesses and growing opportunities for visitors to experience state parks in new and innovative ways,” Sumption said.

In addition to operating more than 250 state parks and maintaining hundreds of historic structures, the agency also manages the ocean shore, the State Historic Preservation Office, ATV safety programs and permits as well as multiple grant programs for trails, ATVs, historic structures and local government projects.

For more information about the survey or to learn about ways to support parks, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/ or take the survey at bit.ly/stateparksurvey.

Portland, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services Midtown Child Welfare office is going back to its roots. The 90-person staff and district administration will return to the building where this Portland office first started 31 years ago – 815 N.E. Davis Street in the Lloyd District or Midtown area. The newly remodeled building will be open to the public Monday, August 4. Staff will move in August 1 – 3.

Earlier this year Child Welfare staff had to leave their office at 1425 N.E. Irving Street due to structural issues. They moved temporarily into the Portland State Office Building, 800 N.E. Oregon Street.

“Staff are excited about moving into the remodeled building. There will be more space, a visitation hub for the people we serve, space for community meetings and it will be a trauma informed design,” Marisa Moon, District Manager, said.  

Now staff members were consulted on what their needs what their needs were, and the needs were for children and families. The renovation used trauma-informed design, which creates physical spaces that promote healing, safety and well-being. The environment helps create calming and comfortable spaces that bring a sense of safety, control and dignity to the workforce, community partners, and children and families being supported in the branch. There will be natural light, calming colors and comfortable furniture and areas that allow for privacy in conversations.

The return to this building also shows the Child Welfare program’s intention to stay in the current community, which helps maintain existing partnerships and collaborations to support families. The new structure allows for community partners to use the space for events and meetings. The location maintains its proximity to the Alberta Branch where the Self-Sufficiency Program and the Oregon Eligibility Partnership will continue to offer services so that families that need them will be close to those other programs.  

“We hope that our staff, through this building, can continue to be part of this community, helping those who need assistance and services – for many more years to come,” Moon said.  

To contact the ODHS Child Welfare office at 815 NE Davis Street: 971-673-1800; eception@odhsoha.oregon.gov">midtown.reception@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bend, OR — July 23, 2025 - With Central Oregon in the thick of summer and daytime temperatures consistently in the 90s, individuals experiencing homelessness are at heightened risk of dehydration and heat-related illness. To address this challenge, Shepherd’s House Ministries is calling on the community to donate bottled water and support its effort to combat hunger and homelessness.

A Place at the Table is a summer initiative focused on raising critical funds for food, hydration, and support services for those living on the streets. As part of this effort, Shepherd’s House Ministries is urgently seeking donations of bottled water. Cases or pallets of individual-sized bottles are especially needed to help relieve the current shortage and ensure immediate hydration needs are met.

“In this heat, a cold bottle of water can be life-saving,” said Curt Floski, Executive Director at Shepherd’s House Ministries. “But water is just the beginning. People also need food, rest, and connection. That’s what A Place at the Table is all about.”

In addition to water donations, monetary contributions are deeply appreciated. Every dollar raised through A Place at the Table supports meals, outreach services, shelter, and compassionate care for individuals and families experiencing homelessness throughout Central Oregon.

How You Can Help:

Donate bottled water (cases or pallets) at:

Bend -1854 NE Division St

Redmond - 1350 S Hwy 97

Make a financial gift to support the full scope of the A Place at the Table campaign at shministries.org

Together, we can offer more than just relief; we can offer dignity, hope, and a place at the table for everyone.

About Shepherd’s House Ministries
Shepherd’s House Ministries serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness, trauma, addiction, and crisis in Central Oregon. Through emergency services, case management, long-term recovery programs, and strategic partnerships, we help rebuild lives and restore hope.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced today that more than $2.5 million was collected from a real estate developer and part-time resident of Vancouver, Washington, for fraudulently obtained Covid-relief program funds.  

According to court documents, between 2020 and 2022, Michael James DeFrees, 63, submitted loan applications and obtained Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under false pretenses. In the applications, DeFrees falsely indicated that he had never been convicted of any disqualifying criminal offense or recently placed on parole or probation. In reality, at the time he submitted the applications, DeFrees was on probation following a 2017 felony conviction in the Western District of Washington for falsifying records in a bankruptcy proceeding. After receiving the loan payouts, DeFrees laundered a portion of the proceeds through a business entity not listed in his applications and spent the funds on personal expenses.

On February 9, 2024, DeFrees was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for fraudulently obtaining Covid-relief program funds and laundering a portion of the proceeds. DeFrees was also ordered to forfeit $1.2 million and pay $1,346,481 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Soon after, the Asset Recovery Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office filed liens against DeFrees’s real properties and obtained writs of execution to levy and sell his personal assets, including a 2016 Duckworth boat, a 2006 Ford F350, a 2006 MTI racing boat, two Honda Yeti snow bikes, and a 2011 Land Rover. The Asset Recovery Unit recovered the full restitution and forfeiture judgment amounts, more than $2.5 million, from the sale of DeFrees’s seized assets and one real property. The funds collected for restitution will be returned to the SBA, and funds collected to satisfy the forfeiture judgment will go to the Assets Forfeiture Fund, which pays for expenses related to the seizure, management, forfeiture and disposal of forfeitable assets.

“Defendants who attempt to shield their assets from collection do so at their own peril, as the U.S. Attorney’s Office will aggressively pursue full payment from defendants who owe restitution to their victims,” said Katie de Villiers, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit for the District of Oregon. “The money recovered for victims—here, the taxpayers—is a direct result of the dedicated investigators, paralegals, and attorneys who work diligently, day in and day out, to ensure justice through their collection efforts.”

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the FBI. Enforcement of the restitution order and collection of the forfeiture judgment was handled by Alex DeLorenzo, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. The United States Marshals Service levied assets subject to the writs of execution and coordinated with auction companies across the country to liquidate the seized assets.

# # #

The mother of the individual still missing at Dillon Falls asked the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to release the following statement on her behalf. She asks for privacy and will not make further statements or respond to media inquiries.

MOTHER'S STATEMENT:

"It has come to my attention that there is misinformation circulating about the ongoing search and rescue operations to locate my child. I want to be clear and direct: my family and I have been in close communication with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and Search & Rescue teams from the very beginning. We are incredibly grateful for their support, professionalism, and unwavering commitment. The efforts of the deputies, staff, and volunteers have gone above and beyond anything we could have hoped for, and we deeply appreciate everything they are doing.

"This search is far more complex than most people realize. Many members of the public do not have full knowledge of the situation, which has led to misunderstandings and assumptions. As the mother of the missing individual, I support the approach and strategy implemented by the Sheriff’s Office and the trained Search & Rescue professionals. I trust the situation is being handled with the utmost care, expertise, and compassion.

"Out of respect for our family, I ask that people refrain from spreading false information, speculating, or interfering in this process. We especially ask that "Juan the Diver" cease and desist from making further public comments or attempting to participate in the official search. His involvement has not been part of the coordinated response, and we do not want the hard work of these trained professionals questioned or disrupted.

"Our focus remains on bringing our child home. We are not speaking to the media at any time and respectfully ask that no one contacts our immediate family. We are still in the process of notifying relatives who live outside the country, and we ask for privacy and space to navigate this unimaginable situation.

"Please continue to support the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the incredible people and volunteers working tirelessly on this mission. We are releasing this statement to clear the air and move forward without distraction.

"Thank you for your understanding and compassion."

—with respect,

The Mother of the Missing Individual

Current date: July 23rd, 2025

Date of incident: July 22nd, 2025

Case #: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – 25-32488

Location: 52000 Block of Sunrise Blvd., La Pine OR

Arrested: Kevin James Allen, 44-year-old, La Pine resident

Charges:  

-ORS 475.752(7)(b)(B) Possession of Controlled Substance: Schedule 1 A FELONY

-ORS 475C.337 Possession of Controlled Substance (Marijuana) >8lbs C FELONY

-ORS 475C.349 Attempted Manufacture of Controlled Substance (Marijuana) A MISDEMEANOR

Press Release Information:

At approximately 7:45 AM on July 22nd, 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 52000 Block of Sunrise Blvd. in La Pine OR. Detectives executed the warrant in relation to a short-term investigation into the illegal manufacturing of marijuana.

During the execution of the search warrant, Detectives located two large disassembled marijuana grows located in two separate shops on the property. Detectives located and seized nearly 60 pounds of processed marijuana, approximately 6 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, and a small quantity of LSD, MDMA(Ecstasy) and Ketamine. Detectives also seized one firearm and a large sum of cash.  

During this investigation, Kevin James Allen was arrested and later lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail on the above-mentioned charges.  Additional charges may be filed at a later date as this is an ongoing investigation.

Criminal complaints contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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.

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (July 23, 2025) – On Sunday, July 20, 2025, at approximately 9:13 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 99E near Harrisburg.

The preliminary investigation indicated a green Toyota Tacoma, operated by Laura Marie Howard (48) of Corvallis, was traveling westbound on Highway 99E near Cartney Drive when it entered the intersection without stopping at the stop sign. The Toyota was struck by a southbound white Freightliner semi-truck and trailer, operated by Barret E. Morrison (31) of McMinnville.
 

The operator of the Tacoma (Howard) was declared deceased at the scene.
 

The operator of the Freightliner (Morrison) was not injured. A passenger in the commercial motor vehicle, Eric Sean Fisher (56) of Newberg, was also not injured.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #
 

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.

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (July 23, 2025) — On Friday, July 18, 2025, the Oregon State Police arrested David Brian Scott (50) of Grants Pass for multiple sex crimes. The arrest occurred in the 600 block of SW Balsam Road in Grants Pass. Scott is currently lodged at the Josephine County Jail on charges of rape 1, three counts of sodomy 1, unlawful sexual penetration 1, attempting to commit sodomy, and sex abuse 3.

Anyone with additional information regarding Scott is asked to contact OSP’s Southern Command Center at 1-800-442-2068 or call OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number #SP25-340600.
 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Bend, OR — July 23, 2025 — Today, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Shepherd’s House Ministries invites the Central Oregon community to join the 3rd Anniversary Celebration of the Lighthouse Navigation Center, a trusted low-barrier shelter and resource hub in the heart of Bend.

Since its launch in 2021, the Lighthouse has provided far more than food and shelter — it has become a lifeline for hundreds in crisis by offering wrap-around services like case management, counseling, life-skills classes, and a day-use facility, all in partnership with local nonprofits and agencies.

Over the past year alone (June 2024–June 2025), the Lighthouse has:

• Served 951 daytime participants and 481 overnight guests

• Facilitated 70 transitions into institutional (20), temporary (23), and permanent (27) housing

• Supported 175 individuals through personalized case management

Event Details:
? Location: Lighthouse Navigation Center, 275 NE 2nd Street, Bend, OR
? Time: 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. today
? Open to the Public — Food, stories, fellowship, and gratitude

This anniversary celebration honors the collective efforts of community members, donors, volunteers, and partner agencies who have helped make the Lighthouse a place where basic needs are met and lasting change is possible.

“Today, we celebrate not just an anniversary, but lives changed because our community chose to show up,” said Curt Floski, Executive Director of Shepherd’s House Ministries. “The Lighthouse stands as a beacon of hope — and it wouldn’t be possible without the people of Central Oregon.”

All are welcome to attend, meet the team, hear real-life stories of transformation, and see the impact of three years of committed service and collaboration.

For more information, visit www.shministries.org or call (541) 388-2096.

About Shepherd’s House Ministries
Shepherd’s House Ministries serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness, trauma, addiction, and crisis in Central Oregon. Through emergency services, case management, long-term recovery programs, and strategic partnerships, we help rebuild lives and restore hope.

Deschutes County, OR – Recovery efforts are ongoing today, in the search for the last remaining individual missing after six people missed the final takeout area at Dillon Falls on Saturday, July 19th. The group had been floating on inner tubes tied together before the incident occurred.

Investigators have learned that the three survivors jumped from their tubes and made it to shore, while the other three were swept into the main rapids. Dillon Falls is an extremely dangerous section of the Deschutes River, marked by a dramatic 15-foot drop and classified as a Class 5 Rapid. It features long, violent, and obstructed sections of whitewater with rocks, logs, and other debris that pose serious hazards even to experienced paddlers.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is now releasing the names of the two deceased victims:

• Amanda Loyd, Date of Birth: July 16, 1985 – of Rockwall, Texas

• Lindsay Bashan, Date of Birth: January 3, 1992 – of Parkland, Florida

The name of the final missing individual will be released once they are located and next of kin have been notified. The identities of the three survivors are being withheld out of respect for their privacy.

Search operations remain active today. A Life Flight aircraft is flying with a DCSO Search & Rescue (SAR) diver onboard to survey the area from the air, while Portland Police Bureau has deployed a fixed-wing aircraft with specialized search cameras to assist. A K-9 team is also on scene, including the same dog that was instrumental in locating the victim Monday. If the final missing individual is not found today, side-scanning sonar will be brought in to assist with deeper underwater searches.

“This has been a difficult and emotional incident, and we can’t say enough about the professionalism and dedication of our Marine Patrol Unit, Search & Rescue Deputies, and SAR Volunteers,” said Jason Carr, Public Information Officer for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. “They have led a coordinated and effective mission under very challenging conditions, and their work has already helped bring answers and closure to two grieving families. We are confident they will continue doing everything possible to locate the final missing individual.”

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office asks the public to stay clear of the Dillon Falls area while operations are underway. Search teams follow a systematic, methodical approach that requires experience, training, and preparation. Public interference or unintentional disruption could slow recovery efforts and put the recovery at risk.

As summer recreation increases across Central Oregon, the Sheriff’s Office also urges everyone to take safety precautions when on the water:

• Know the water: Understand the river or lake you’re on and where it’s safe to launch and take out. Watch for posted signs and warnings.

• Wear a life jacket: Always have a personal flotation device (PFD) on you or readily available. It can mean the difference between life and death.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs: Impairment is a leading factor in many water-related incidents. Stay sober to stay safe.

Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.

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Current date: July 22nd, 2025

Date of incident: July 21st, 2025

Case #: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – 25-39695

Incident: CODE arrests a man in possession of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine

Arrested: Jacob Allen Raines, 45-year-old, Bend resident

Charges: Three felony warrants for his arrest, additional charges referred to the District Attorney

Press Release Information:

Members of the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team concluded a drug investigation late Monday night by arresting Jacob Allen Raines who was in possession of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl powder.

Prior to this arrest, Jacob Allen Raines has been arrested and convicted of delivery of a controlled substance on four occasions. A short-term investigation by the CODE team revealed Raines had warrants for his arrest and that he was continuing to distribute illegal narcotics in the Central Oregon area.

CODE Detectives conducted a surveillance operation and were able to locate him in the City of Bend.  He was driving a red 2006 Dodge Ram pickup.  As detectives followed him, they observed traffic violations, he then pulled into a parking lot at 110 NW Sisemore St. At approximately 9PM, a Deschutes County Deputy pulled in behind the vehicle and contacted Jacob Raines in the driver seat.  He was arrested on his warrants and CODE Detectives continued the investigation.

Drug detection K9 “Bonnie” was deployed and alerted to the odor of drugs in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed approximately an ounce of methamphetamine, approximately an ounce of cocaine, and approximately an ounce of fentanyl powder.  There was also a scale, packaging material, and items associated with the distribution of illegal narcotics.

Raines was transported to the Deschutes County Adult Jail where he was lodged. Raines was lodged on the warrants for his arrest and additional charges will be referred to the District Attorney’s Office for possessing and distributing illegal narcotics. 

CODE would like to thank the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance during this investigation. 

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.

July 22, 2025 

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA report: School-based health centers log record highs in visits, people served in Oregon communities 

PORTLAND, Ore.— School-based health centers (SBHC) throughout Oregon reported record highs in patient visits and people served during the 2023-24 school year, according to an annual status report released by Oregon Health Authority.

Operating through a unique community partnership model, Oregon’s 87 SBHCs served 43,000 people – mostly school-aged youth ages 5 to 21 – and accommodated nearly 149,000 patient visits in 28 counties.

Most school-aged patients used SBHC services for primary care in such areas as well visits, immunizations, reproductive health, and acute care.

Forty-seven percent of school-aged patients came to the SBHC for behavioral health services.

SBHCs are clinics located in schools or on school grounds that provide community resources to support people’s health and well-being and have existed in Oregon since 1986. They provide access to comprehensive, youth-centered health services for children and youth, many of whom would otherwise go without care.

“SBHC staff and providers work hard every day to ensure that students, their families – and in some cases people in their communities – receive top quality health care,” said Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer and epidemiologist at OHA. “This is challenging work, and the need has never been greater.”

Oregon’s SBHCs provide accessible and affordable care, referral and treatment services and operate under federal, state and local regulations.

All are operated by medical entities, with nearly 75% operated by federally qualified health centers (FQHC)—federally funded nonprofit health centers and clinics that serve medically underserved areas and populations. All FQHCs provide primary care services regardless of a person’s ability to pay.

OHA certifies and provides $65,000 a year to each state-certified SBHC to support base operating costs. SBHCs supplement this state funding through a combination of grants, funding from partner agencies, fundraising and in-kind donations, and public and private insurance billing.

According to the report:

• Overall patient visits increased 15%, and the number of patients increased almost 13% since the previous year, rebounding from declines during the COVID-19 pandemic. 
• A similar trend occurred in behavioral health services. Visits for all ages increased about 19% from the previous school year; and the number of behavioral health patients increased by 14%.
• School-aged patients accounted for 71% of all SBHC visits and accounted for more than three clinic visits during the year, on average. One third of these patients received an immunization.
• More than 2,000 dental visits were made by 1,298 school-aged clients.

At a minimum, SBHCs serve students enrolled at the host school. However, many SBHCs serve other populations, such as student families, school staff, students at other schools, or the surrounding communities.

Visit the following links to read and hear about how students and their families are embracing services provided by school-based health centers:

• Multnomah County Student Health Center, https://healthcenter.multco.us/current-patients/our-services/kids-and-teens#878-a-doctors-office-at-school.
• Redmond High School-Based Health Center, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGh_oqzsfnY.
• Pendleton School Based Health Centers (story begins at 07:00), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MQm2GFfIOo.

To learn more about Oregon’s SBHCs check out the OHA SBHC Program webpage. 

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7 in 10 prioritize investments over cost-cutting while also planning for tariff impacts and improved efficiency  

Umpqua Bank recently conducted a mid-year survey of small and midsized businesses across the Oregon on their 12-month economic outlook, growth plans, and response to tariffs, generative AI and cybersecurity. 

While general optimism and plans for growth are somewhat muted by economic uncertainty and potential tariff impacts, decision-makers are relatively confident in their prospects for continued success. Compared with businesses operating in other parts of the country, they are growth-focused and leading in generative AI adoption, while prioritizing investments that create efficiency and protect working capital.   

A majority (57%) of area businesses surveyed rate the current economy as excellent or good; 55% also expect the economy to improve over the next 12 months—well above the national average (47%). 

Recession ranks as the top overall concern for area businesses, followed by inflation and tariffs.

Adjusting to Tariffs, Trade Uncertainty 

In response to tariffs, many have already taken measured steps to manage potential impacts. Rather than making wholesale changes to foreign operations or supply chains, businesses have been planning for a range of modest actions, including price adjustments, negotiating costs with suppliers, looking for additional sources both domestically and internationally, and accelerating sales timelines, among other strategies.  

For those with facilities or sourcing operations abroad, the prospect of tariffs is having limited impact on near-term decisions to reshore operations or source materials domestically. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 leaders surveyed still plan to maintain or increase their current levels of foreign trade activity and exposure over the next 12 months.  

Balancing Growth Expectations and Financial Challenges 

Oregon businesses continue to balance relative optimism and expectations for growth with managing financial concerns. 

They are upbeat about business prospects over the next 12 months, with those surveyed much more likely to prioritize making investments than cost-cutting. Many expect increases in demand for products and services (62%), revenue (53%), profitability (41%) and the number of employees (34%). Simultaneously, managing financial challenges, including the need for expanding markets, is most cited as the key to success.  

Investment priorities reflect the balance between growth opportunities and financial management. Top priorities include investing in digitization to improve efficiency (90%) and  accessing capital to finance expansion (67%). Two thirds of respondents also cite tools to protect payment systems, making significant changes to products or services and expanding their real estate footprint (51%). 

“Businesses remain focused on growth, while moving ahead with caution,” says Amy Davis, Umpqua Bank’s Director of Retail Business Banking. “They are being strategic in their investments, prioritizing efficiency and being responsive to uncertain market dynamics.”

Leading on AI and Cybersecurity 

AI remains a top investment priority for Oregon businesses, with 77% likely to invest or expand AI tools over the next 12 months. They’ve made significant progress implementing AI technology, and a strong majority feel confident in their pace of adoption compared to peers (60%). About half (48%) also report that, at least right now, AI implementation has actually led to increased staff levels, compared to 9% reporting a decrease. Leaders cite AI’s positive impact on improved decision-making, productivity and profitability as fueling the increase. 

Cybersecurity and related fraud are also top of mind, and businesses are taking steps to combat related threats. In the last 12 months, most have prioritized cybersecurity and anti-fraud enhancements by tightening internal controls (73%), using bank fraud prevention solutions (69%), emphasizing employee training (66%) and conducting regular audits to identify vulnerabilities (59%). While 83% feel at least moderately well prepared to prevent an attack, just 4 in 10 feel very well prepared. 

“To combat cybersecurity and fraud, companies need to adopt a culture of a proactive defense,” says Kathryn Albright, Umpqua Bank’s Head of Global Payments and Deposits. “Simple measures go a long way at protecting the entire operation. Regularly train employees on the latest schemes. Look at your internal controls, conduct regular audits to identify vulnerabilities and use bank fraud prevention solutions.” 

To download Umpqua Bank’s 2025 Business Barometer report on U.S. small and midsize businesses, visit umpquabank.com/

Umpqua Bank is a leading regional financial institution supporting businesses of all sizes and consumers across eight western states. With more than $50 billion in assets, Umpqua is the largest Northwest-based and third largest publicly traded bank on the West Coast.

SANTIAM STATE FOREST, Ore.—The High Lakes recreation area of the Santiam State Forest reopened this month after being closed in the aftermath of the 2020 Labor Day wildfires.  All recreation areas in the Santiam are now open to the public.

“We focused our rebuilding efforts on highly visited recreation areas, like Shellburg Falls and Butte Creek Falls first, then later on less visited areas including High Lakes,” said Joe Offer, Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program Manager.

Shellburg Falls opened in 2023 and Butte Creeks Falls opened last year.

High Lakes includes well-known Rhody Lake and the pair of Butte Lakes.  There are also several trails in the area.  Main access to the area is through the Butte Creek 500 and 800 gates, which are now open. The main change, other than the burnt landscape, is that overnight camping is no longer allowed at the Rhody Lake recreation site.

“We made the change for two main reasons: lack of infrastructure and fire safety,” said Offer.  “There is a vault toilet at Rhody Lake, but no improved campsites or campfire rings.  The area still has many dead standing trees and piles of dead trees, so the fire risks are much higher than before the 2020 fires.”

Some of those piles of trees are from ODF’s nearly five-year effort to remove hazardous burnt and dead trees along miles of forest roads throughout the Santiam State Forest.

“We also had salvage logging, road repairs, and replanting operations going on in many areas of the Santiam,” said Chelsey Peters, acting district forester for ODF’s North Cascade District. 

However, safety of visitors still remains the top concern.

“Even though we removed hazard trees near roads there are many snags (dead trees) along the trail system so hikers should be aware of their surroundings especially during weather events like high winds or heavy rain that can bring trees and branches down on trails,” said Peters.  “We also considered delaying the opening until after the fire season but wanted folks to have access as soon as possible.”

The Santiam is currently in “High” fire danger and that brings a rather long list of restrictions.  There are four fire danger levels: Low, Moderate, High and Extreme. Two key “High” fire danger restrictions are:

• Any activity that creates a spark or has the potential to create a spark are only allowed before 1 p.m. or after 8 p.m., which includes use of chainsaws, off-road vehicles, mowing, and grinding.
• All vehicles travelling on ODF roads need to have a shovel and gallon of water or working 2.5-poud fire extinguisher or larger.

People are still allowed to have recreational fires during “High” but need to have the shovel and water/extinguisher on hand.

The restrictions for each level for the Santiam can be found here.  To see the current fire danger level for any ODF protected lands in the state, go here.

While the threat of fire is still a concern, ODF is also looking to the future and has planted more than 2 million seedlings in the Santiam. Some of those when into the High Lakes recreation area.

“We planted 658 acres with Noble and Douglas fir in the Rhody Lake area,” said Vince Ferguson, young stand manager for the North Cascade District. “Unlike most of the rest of the Santiam that was planted for future timber value this area, because of the high elevation and challenging soil conditions was mainly done for aesthetics. We want to recapture the natural beauty of the area before those fires hit.

For more information on recreational areas in Oregon’s state forests go here.

Dear media partners, 

We know there have been a lot of moving parts, so we would like to share this information about our current shelter operations.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Lighthouse Navigation Center Celebrates 3 Years of Impact in Bend

Bend, OR — July 21st — Shepherd’s House Ministries invites the Central Oregon community to celebrate the 3rd Anniversary of the Lighthouse Navigation Center, a transformative low-barrier shelter and day-use facility in Bend that has become a critical resource for hundreds of individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis. Since its opening in 2021, the Lighthouse has done more than provide food and shelter — it has delivered hope, dignity, and tangible pathways toward stability. Through case management, counseling, classes, and vital collaborations with other local nonprofits and agencies, the Lighthouse has become a place where basic needs are met and long-term transformation is made possible.

Over the past year alone (June 2024–June 2025), the Lighthouse has:

• Welcomed 951 daytime participants and 481 overnight guests

• Supported 70 transitions into institutional (20), temporary (23), and permanent (27) housing

• Engaged 175 individuals in case management services

Anniversary Celebration Details:
? Date: July 23, 2025
? Time: 11:30-2:30
? Location: Lighthouse Navigation Center, 275 NE 2nd Street, Bend, OR

This milestone celebration will feature food, fellowship, guest stories, and gratitude, highlighting the community partnerships and shared efforts that have made three years of life transformation possible. “Every person we serve has a story and every step forward is because our community chose to care,” said Curt Floski, Executive Director of Shepherd’s House Ministries. “The Lighthouse has become a space of safety and renewal because of the support and compassion we receive from this region.”

The event is open to the public. All are welcome to attend and see firsthand the impact of what’s possible when we meet people where they are and walk with them toward a better future.

For more information, visit www.shministries.org or call (541) 388-2096.

About Shepherd’s House Ministries

At Shepherd’s House Ministries, we provide food for the hungry and shelter for the homeless. We aim to support those facing life-controlling challenges and break cycles of pain. Our goal is to heal hearts and transform lives.

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UPDATE: JULY 20TH, 6:45PM
 

Search and Rescue Efforts Continue at Dillon Falls West of Bend

Deschutes County, OR – Search and rescue operations resumed at 8:00 a.m. this morning as crews continue looking for the two individuals still missing after Saturday’s incident at Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River west of Bend.

Two drones were deployed early in the day by Bend Police Department to search the Dillon Falls area in coordination with swiftwater rescue team members. Three K9 teams also assisted, working alongside marine patrol boats to search the area downstream of Dillon Falls for approximately three hours.

15 swiftwater rescue team members were deployed to physically search high-interest areas identified by drone imagery and visual reconnaissance.

Recovery operations occurred throughout the day. No additional updates on identities are available at this time. Recovery efforts will continue on Monday. 

ORIGINAL MEDIA RELEASE
 

Deschutes County, Ore. – A multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway after a group of six individuals went over Dillon Falls on the Deschutes River west of Bend Saturday afternoon.

At approximately 2:57 p.m., Deschutes County 9-1-1 received a report of the incident, prompting an immediate response from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Bend Fire & Rescue, and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue (SAR). The Bend Police Department provided drone support, and AirLink assisted with the aerial search.

Three individuals were rescued from the river and transported to St. Charles-Bend by ambulance. One person was confirmed deceased at the scene. Two others remain missing.

DCSO Search & Rescue and Bend Fire & Rescue crews continued recovery efforts into the evening and will work until sunset. If unsuccessful, operations will pause overnight and resume in the morning.

The names of the victims and survivors are not being released at this time to allow for proper family notification.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office thanks all partner agencies for their swift and coordinated response. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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CLACKAMAS, Ore. -  Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) returned home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission.

The welcome home event at Camp Withycombe marked the homecoming for soldiers participating in KFOR's 34th rotation. This mission has been crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the Balkans since 1999. Approximately 300 soldiers returned in two groups, with the first group arriving around 1 p.m. A formal demobilization ceremony will be held in the near future.

The first group to return consisted primarily of soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, headquartered in Springfield, along with medical and support personnel from the 600-member task force that included soldiers from Oregon, Idaho, West Virginia, New Jersey, and Tennessee.

Lt. Col. Joseph Twigg, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, addressed the returning soldiers and their families. "Over the past year, you stood watch in Kosovo as part of KFOR. You built partnerships, maintained stability, and represented the United States with professionalism and integrity," Twigg said. "From the smallest patrol to the most complex multinational mission, you performed with discipline, heart, and commitment."

During their deployment, the Oregon soldiers made significant contributions to what Col. Peter Helzer, Commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, described as "the longest and most successful NATO mission in the history of the alliance."

"Oregon soldiers contributed to a robust international mission, adding to over 4,000 security patrols, 13,000 public engagements, and 5,000 volunteer hours supporting communities in Kosovo," Helzer said. "Additionally, soldiers from the 41st IBCT successfully responded to one of the largest terrorist attacks in Kosovo in recent years by providing security to critical infrastructure, working with our local and international partners to maintain peace in the region."

The deployment provided unprecedented opportunities for international cooperation and professional development. Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment conducted fully integrated patrols with German and Latvian armies across contested terrain in Northern Kosovo. At the same time, headquarters staff planned operations alongside Italian, Hungarian, Slovenian, Turkish, and Swiss soldiers.

"The greatest lesson for most of us, I'm sure, was the importance of building trust in your team and your partners," Helzer explained. "In this business, relationships matter, and Kosovo provided an unprecedented opportunity to learn how to better connect and operate together."

The skills gained during the deployment will have immediate applications back home in Oregon. "Much of the experience gained from the mission in Kosovo can be immediately applied to supporting emergency services and domestic operations back here in Oregon," Helzer noted. "As part of KFOR, we had to immediately integrate into a complex system of law enforcement, local government, and emergency services to be successful. The organizational, communication, and logistical skills we stressed overseas will most certainly make us more effective in case of an emergency here at home."

Beyond the professional development, the mission provided many soldiers with their first opportunity to serve in Europe and experience a different part of the world.

Speaking to the families and communities who supported the soldiers throughout the deployment, Helzer emphasized the strategic importance of the mission. "The Balkan region is a historic crossroad of empires, and maintaining stability there prevents greater disorder that will eventually impact us here at home," he said.

"I want you to know the command team from top all the way down are committed to normalizing the demands on you and your soldiers over the coming years," Helzer told families at the ceremony. "Thank you for your commitment and support."

Twigg praised the soldiers' performance during the deployment, telling them they "shaped the security picture, provided real-time assessments that reached leaders at every level, and ensured informed decision-making from the ground up."

He also recognized the families' sacrifices during the deployment. "To the families here today—you served too. You kept things running at home, carried the burdens of distance, and supported your Soldiers every day," Twigg said. "Thank you for your sacrifice and resilience. We could not have done this without you."

The 41st IBCT's community engagement efforts extended far beyond traditional military operations. "Whether on missions such as patrols, observation posts, or aerial recon and resupply, or community engagements and projects, they have done work that had a real impact on the lives of the Kosovar people," Helzer said. "Beyond that, they have served as a strategic deterrent to malign actors across the region."

The successful completion of the KFOR mission demonstrates the Oregon National Guard's continued commitment to serving both state and federal missions while maintaining readiness for any contingency.

The 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, known as the "Jungleers," is headquartered in Clackamas with subordinate units spread throughout Oregon. The brigade's successful deployment to Kosovo continues the unit's proud tradition of service, building on previous deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

With the soldiers now home, the focus shifts to reintegration and applying the valuable experience gained during their time in the Balkans to future missions, both at home and abroad.

Released B-Roll Video: https://youtu.be/Iup7lj07Rc4

Released Photos:

250719-1001

Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) returned home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission. The members were enthusiastically greeted by friends and family as they made their way into the Camp Withycombe gymnasium in Happy Valley, Oregon. (National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250719-1002

Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) returned home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission. The members were enthusiastically greeted by friends and family as they made their way into the Camp Withycombe gymnasium in Happy Valley, Oregon. (National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250719-1003

Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) returned home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission. The members were enthusiastically greeted by friends and family as they made their way into the Camp Withycombe gymnasium in Happy Valley, Oregon. (National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250719-1004

Lt. Col. Joseph Twigg gives some quick remarks to the waiting crowd before dismissing the soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) after returning home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission. The members were enthusiastically greeted by friends and family as they made their way into the Camp Withycombe gymnasium in Happy Valley, Oregon. (National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250719-1005

Soldiers from the Oregon Army National Guard's 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) returned home July 19, 2025, following a successful year-long deployment to Kosovo as part of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission. The members were enthusiastically greeted by friends and family as they made their way into the Camp Withycombe gymnasium in Happy Valley, Oregon. (National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

Released Video of Mission in Kosovo: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/968195/kosovo-regional-command-east-end-tour-video

July 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Bully Creek Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Bully Creek Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom and cyanotoxins above recreational use values for human exposure. The lake is in Malheur County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Bully Creek Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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Polk County, Ore. 18 July 2025- On Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 4:12 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 22W, at the intersection with Highway 223, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Kawasaki EJ650 motorcycle, operated by David Peter Jorgensen (88) of Oak Harbor (WA), was stopped on Highway 223 (northbound) at the intersection with Highway 22W. The Kawasaki attempted to cross Highway 22W and struck the side of a westbound Kenworth log truck, operated by Timothy Lawrence May (60) of Sheridan.

The operator of the Kawasaki (Jorgensen) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Kenworth (May) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by ODOT.

# # #

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison Thursday for illegally possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Rocky Allan Rainwater, 25, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in January 2024, investigators with the FBI and Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) learned that an individual, later identified as Rainwater, used Telegram, an encrypted messaging service, to advertise the sale of various illegal narcotics including cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA, ketamine, LSD, Xanax, Adderall, and marijuana.

During the investigation, investigators learned that Rainwater sold drugs to several minors in the Portland area and determined that he was advertising and selling drugs to both adults and minors. In addition to delivering drugs locally, Rainwater, using the Telegram username “smokeyinpdx,” also advertised that he would sell and ship drugs to out-of-state customers.  

On March 22, 2024, investigators arranged a controlled buy of cocaine from Rainwater. When Rainwater arrived, investigators arrested him and seized a loaded .22 caliber pistol, 73 grams of cocaine, 465 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, dextroamphetamine, and a scale. The same day, investigators executed a search warrant on Rainwater’s residence and found cocaine, LSD, methamphetamine, an electronic scale, .22 caliber ammunition, $1,490 in cash, and a money ledger.

On March 23, 2024, Rainwater was charged by criminal complaint with distributing and possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On February 7, 2025, Rainwater pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF). It was prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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Deschutes County, Ore. – At approximately 8:03 a.m. this morning, Deschutes County 911 received a report of a fire near milepost 131–132 on Highway 97, just south of Deschutes Junction.

Deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and determined that Charles Smith Harris Jr. (DOB 4/10/1970) allegedly set fire to a vehicle, which then spread to a nearby trailer owned by Todd Mullings. The fire also ignited several small trees in the area.

Bend Fire & Rescue arrived quickly and was able to knock the flames down before they could spread further. No injuries were reported.

Harris was arrested and booked into the Deschutes County Jail on the following charges:

• Arson in the First Degree
• Reckless Burning
• Criminal Mischief in the First Degree
• Criminal Trespass in the Second Degree
• Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree

He was cooperative with deputies and reportedly told them he started the fire in an attempt to “get a fresh start.”

The fire is being investigated as an arson by Deputy Fire Marshal Cindy Kettering with Bend Fire & Rescue.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office values its strong partnership with Bend Fire & Rescue. Their quick response and coordinated efforts helped prevent further property damage and ensured public safety.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a free community shred event and drug disposal with the assistance of Republic Services this Saturday, July 19th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Location: Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Sisters Substation, 703 N. Larch 

This is a residential free shred event and is not intended for business/commercial shredding.  

We can accept paper clips and staples but cannot take plastic bags or three ring binders. We are asking that people limit the number of documents to be shredded to no more than four boxes.  

If you have more than four boxes of material to be shredded, we are asking that you contact Republic Services at 541-352-2263 to determine how to dispose of your items.  

Medications accepted are prescription, patches, ointments, over the counter, vitamins, samples, and medications for pets. 

NO SHARPS, THERMOMETERS, INHALERS, ETC.  

New to the shred event and drug disposal is a flag disposal. If anyone has an old tattered American flag, they would like properly disposed of it can be done at these events.  

Food donations are also accepted during the event, which will go to a local foodbank.

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, Street Crimes, Marine Patrol, ATV Patrol, Forest Patrol, along with six K9 teams. Founded in 1916 and today led by your duly elected Sheriff L. Shane Nelson, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office serves over 200,000 residents in Deschutes County. The agency has 263 authorized and funded personnel, which includes 178 sworn employees who provide services to the 3,055 square miles of Deschutes County.