PORTLAND, Ore.—A Beaverton, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison today for sexually exploiting multiple minors online and receiving sexually explicit images and videos of the minor victims.

Misael Flores Ramirez, 35, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison and 15 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, it was reported that, from April 2023 through September 2023, Flores Ramirez was in contact with a 12-year-old minor victim. Flores Ramirez sent over 30 sexually explicit images and videos of himself to a minor victim who he met on the social media application Wink. Flores Ramirez requested and received over 30 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from the minor victim and threatened to stop talking if the images were not sent.  

A search of Flores Ramirez’s phone revealed over 2,000 images of CSAM and contact with other minors. Specifically, beginning in February 2023 through March 2023, Flores Ramirez requested and received sexually explicit images from a 14-year-old minor victim.  He then shared the videos and images of the minor victim with multiple Telegram users. Flores Ramirez used WhatsApp and Telegram chatrooms devoted to trading CSAM to receive images and share videos of minor victims.

On September 10, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a five-count indictment charging Flores Ramirez with sexual exploitation of children, transfer of obscene matter to a minor, and distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography.

On September 18, 2025, Flores Ramirez pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children and receipt of child pornography.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley prosecuted the case.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.

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

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Every year, the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony honors the state’s law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony will be held Tuesday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The annual event commemorates the more than 190 fallen officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state of Oregon since the 1860s. This includes law enforcement, corrections, and parole and probation officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training is proud to host the ceremony in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and various statewide law enforcement associations. 

CORVALLIS, Ore. - The Benton County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a Drug Take Back Event on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. This event allows the public to safely dispose of expired or unused medications.

This is a one-day drive-thru event at 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis. Those interested in dropping off at this location are asked to enter the parking lot off Research Way and follow the signs and directions of the volunteers.

Some items are not allowed at the event. For safety reasons, these include thermometers, intra-venous solutions, needles, EpiPens®, or medical waste of any kind. Vitamins and illegal drugs are also not accepted. Prescription and over-the counter medications can only be accepted from individual households, not from businesses such as nursing homes, doctor’s offices, or veterinary clinics. A complete list of restricted items is posted on the Sheriff’s Office website at https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/drug-take-back.

This event is offered as a public safety service to help keep prescription drugs out of the hands of kids or others who might abuse them. Misuse of prescription drugs is a serious problem, especially with teens and young adults.

Additionally, improperly disposing of medications, by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash, can lead to contamination of our drinking water. While most drugs can be treated at wastewater treatment plants, some cannot.

Community partners, Oregon State University Pharmacy Program and the City of Corvallis, are helping support this event, sanctioned by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as part of its National Take-Back Initiative. The Sheriff’s Office is able to offer this service with volunteer support from Reserve Deputies, Auxiliary Team, and Benton County Emergency Management Volunteer Corps. For more information, visit Benton County Drug Take Back Event. 

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On August 9, 2025, at 1:00 AM, 28 year old Mark Troughton left the Peacock Bar and Grill.  He turned into a nearby alley way, crashed into a dumpster, and then drove off.  Multiple Corvallis Police Officers, investigating an unrelated assault nearby, reported the crash over the radio.  Benton County Sheriff’s Deputy Brandom Bloom responded, and caught up with Troughton a few blocks from the dumpster crash. 

Troughton admitted to hitting the dumpster, but downplayed the event saying, “I didn’t think anything of it.  There’s more damage to my vehicle than the dumpster.”  When Bloom read him his rights Troughton stated, “No comment.”  Bloom then arrested him based on his assessment that Troughton was impaired.  A subsequent search warrant let to a breath test showing Troughton’s blood alcohol level was a .07% about one hour after the crash.

After a one day trial and about 45 minutes of deliberation, a jury determined Troughton was impaired at the time of driving, and found him guilty of DUII and Reckless Driving.  The case was prosecuted by Benton County Deputy District Attorney, John Vehrs.

“A shout out to the Corvallis Police Department and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office for their quick and professional work getting defendant off the road.  Defendant only made it a couple of blocks from the bar.  He only hit a dumpster.  In many cases, the consequences of DUII are much more devastating.”  Ryan Joslin, Benton County District Attorney.  “In 2026, there is no excuse to be DUII.  There are other options—request an Uber/Lyft, call a taxi, text a friend, walk, wait, sleep it off.  Decide BEFORE you drink what you will do AFTER you drink.  Everyone thinks better BEFORE they have had a few.”

PORTLAND, Ore. (March 10, 2026): The Portland Thorns kick off the season March 13 -- a sure sign that spring sports are back in full swing across the Northwest. But it's not just professional athletes preparing for the season. As warmer weather arrives, many women are returning to activities like running, soccer, tennis, hiking, and pickleball. After a winter of lower activity levels, jumping back in too quickly can increase the risk of injury.

"As team physician for the Thorns and the Portland Fire, I spend a lot of time helping elite athletes prepare for the season ahead," said Dr. Jackie Brady, a sports medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Northwest who specializes in caring for female athletes. "But the same principles apply to everyone. Whether you're a professional athlete or someone getting back to weekend soccer, running, or pickleball, gradually building strength and conditioning can help reduce injury risk and keep you active longer."

Women experience some sports injuries differently than men due to differences in anatomy, hormones and biomechanics. For example, women are significantly more likely to experience ACL injuries, particularly in sports that involve pivoting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction.

"Sports medicine research has historically focused on men, but we're learning more about how to tailor training, recovery and injury prevention specifically for women, Dr. Brady said. "Strength training, proper warmups, and paying attention to recovery are some of the best ways to stay healthy and active."

Interest in women's sports is also growing rapidly, and Portland is at the center of that momentum. Kaiser Permanente recently announced it will serve as the trusted team physicians and official medical provider for the Portland Thorns and the WNBA Portland Fire, supporting both elite athletes and broader efforts to advance women's health and performance in sports.

Interviews available:

Dr. Jackie Brady, Sports Medicine Physician with Kaiser Permanente Northwest, is available for Zoom interviews on Thursday, March 12 from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Contact en.a.vitt@kp.org">Karen Vitt to schedule.

Dr. Brady is prepared to discuss:

• How women can safely ramp up activity as spring sports season begins
• The most common injuries seen in women athletes and how to prevent them
• Why training and recovery strategies should be different for women
• Simple strength and conditioning tips that help reduce injury risk for runners, soccer players, and other recreational athletes
• Kaiser Permanente's new partnership with RAJ Sports as the team physicians and official medical provider for the Portland Thorns and Portland Fire

About Kaiser Permanente 

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

ROSEBURG, Ore. – Umpqua Community College (UCC) has launched a new partnership with Pacific University designed to help students pursue careers in pharmacy through a streamlined transfer pathway to a doctoral degree program.

Through the agreement, students at Umpqua Community College and Chemeketa Community College will be able to complete key pre-pharmacy coursework at their community college before continuing their education in Pacific University’s Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program at the university’s Hillsboro Campus.

The new pathway, launching Spring 2026, allows UCC students interested in pharmacy to prepare locally before transitioning into Pacific’s graduate program. Students will have the option to pursue either Pacific’s accelerated three-year PharmD program or its five-year extended pathway, which is designed to provide additional flexibility for students balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.

“This collaboration creates meaningful opportunities for our students to begin their journey toward a career in pharmacy right here at Umpqua Community College,” said Danielle Haskett, Chief Academic Officer at Umpqua Community College. “Working with Pacific University and Chemeketa Community College helps us build stronger educational pathways while supporting the growing demand for healthcare professionals across Oregon.”

Students who participate in the pharmacy pathway will gain early exposure to Pacific University’s School of Pharmacy through advising, professional engagement opportunities, and support during the application process. Eligible students may also participate in Pacific’s Jump Start Early Assurance Program, which offers conditional admission and early connections with faculty and program resources.

The initiative reflects a shared commitment among the institutions to make advanced healthcare education more accessible while strengthening Oregon’s workforce pipeline.

Pacific University has long been recognized for innovative pharmacy education. Its three-year Doctor of Pharmacy program, introduced in 2006, provides an accelerated route to entering the profession. The university later introduced a five-year extended PharmD pathway that allows students to maintain employment while completing their studies.

Demand for pharmacists continues to grow nationwide and across Oregon. Employment opportunities for pharmacists are expected to increase by 5 percent through 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, while the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis projects a shortage of nearly 5,000 pharmacists nationwide by 2036.

By establishing clear transfer pathways, Umpqua Community College aims to help more students pursue careers in healthcare while supporting the needs of communities throughout the region.

“UCC is dedicated to helping students move confidently from community college to advanced degrees and professional careers,” Haskett said. “This partnership provides a clear next step for students interested in pharmacy and reinforces our commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

About Umpqua Community College
Umpqua Community College serves Douglas County and surrounding communities by providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training. Located in Roseburg, Oregon, UCC offers transfer degrees, career and technical education programs, and lifelong learning opportunities that prepare students for university study, meaningful careers, and community leadership.

SALEM, Ore. — The Adaptive Management Program Committee (AMPC) will meet virtually at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16. To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) Co-chairs amphibians literature review & scoping proposal
• IRST clarifying questions on amphibians questions 3

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the start of the meeting. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ogram@odf.oregon.gov">adaptivemanagementprogram@odf.oregon.gov.

The 13-member Adaptive Management Program Committee helps determine if forest practices are meeting their goals to protect natural resources through a science-based and transparent process. The committee sets the research agenda that the Independent Research and Science Team (IRST) implements. View more information on the AMPC webpage.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Pacific Power to host wildfire safety and preparedness webinar

Astoria, Oregón – La oficina del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregón (ODHS) en Astoria, situada en 422 Gateway Avenue, cerrará el viernes 13 de marzo de 1:00 a 5:00 por trabajos de construcción programados en el área. Sin embargo, la Camioneta de Beneficios Móvil de ODHS estará disponible para atender a quienes necesiten servicios en persona. También se puede acudir a la oficina de ODHS en Seaside, 1111 Roosevelt Drive.

Las personas también pueden acceder a ODHS de forma virtual, llamando:

• Programa de Bienestar Infantil para cuidado de crianza, seguridad infantil y servicios de adopción, 503-325-9179.
• Programas de Autosuficiencia, Asociación de Elegibilidad de Oregón para beneficios de comida, dinero, servicios médicos, cuidado infantil y servicios de violencia doméstica. 503-325-2021.

"Tendremos personal en estas ubicaciones alternativas para atender a las personas, ya sea en persona o virtualmente", dijo Lorena Giles, Gerente de Programa OEP.

Astoria, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Astoria office, 422 Gateway Avenue, will close Friday, March 13 from 1 to 5 p.m. for scheduled construction work in the area. However, there will be an ODHS mobile van available at the site to serve people needing to visit in-person. 

People can also come to the ODHS Seaside office, 1111 Roosevelt Drive.

People can also access ODHS virtually, by calling:

• Child Welfare program for foster care, child safety and adoption services, 503-325-9179.
• Self-Sufficiency Programs, Oregon Eligibility Partnership (OEP) for benefits, food, cash, medical, child care and domestic violence services. 503-325-2021.

“We will be fully staffed in these alternative locations to serve people either in person or virtually,” Lorena Giles, OEP Program Manager, said.

For directions and locations of all ODHS offices: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/pages/office-finder.aspx.

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2026 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com and are reviewed on a rolling basis

• One member who is a chief of police recommended to the Governor by the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police
• One member who is a representative of corrections personnel recommended to the Governor by the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One member recommended by and representing the private security industry
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by March 19, 2026.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One public member who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• One person who is a private investigator licensed under ORS 703.430, and is recommended by the Oregon State Bar (will also serve on the PI Sub-Committee upon appointment)
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator
• One person representing the manufacturing industry
• One person representing the hospitality industry

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

The Umpqua Community College Board of Education will have a work session and regular board meeting on March 11, 2026. The work session will begin at 4:00pm in room 14 of Tapʰòytʰaʼ Hall (TAP) and the regular board meeting will begin at 5:00pm in TAP 17. Pertinent meeting information can be found at umpqua.edu/board-meetings.

Due to continued and worsening budget constraints, Lane County Behavioral Health (LCBH) will assume youth mobile crisis and stabilization services previously provided by Riverview Center for Growth effective April 30. By absorbing these services into the already existing Mobile Crisis Services of Lane County program, LCBH can insure Lane County youth and families will continue to have access to life-saving crisis and stabilization services 7 days a week.

“We thank Riverview for their invaluable service to the youth and families of Lane County,” said Lane County Health & Human Services Director, Eve Gray. “We make this move due to the dwindling availability of adequate funding and while it is born out of necessity, we are confident the specific expertise in youth crisis services our LCBH providers and responders have will allow for uninterrupted service to our community.”

LCBH has been providing mental health services to children and adolescents for over 50 years with a full staff of providers who specialize in this age group. The Child & Adolescent program at LCBH is one of 4 core programs and is comprised of 14 staff and serves roughly 400 clients. Additionally, thanks to the advent of LCBH’s Mobile Crisis Services of Lane County, the primary provider of mobile adult crisis services in Lane County outside of Western Lane, LCBH has responders specifically trained to serve youth through mobile crisis response.

The current youth volume averages to about 6-8 calls per day and 3 in-person calls for crisis response. Lane County and Riverview are currently engaged in a transition plan which will see LCBH having 7 days a week coverage from 6 am to 11 pm by the beginning of April. Responders for the overnight shift have already been hired and once two additional positions are secured, the program will be able to operate 24/7.

Once the current contract expires with Riverview, they will continue to provide mental health services outside of mobile crisis services.

“We are deeply proud of the life-saving work our crisis team has provided to youth and families in Lane County for more than 20 years,” said Meghan Melton, Executive Director at Riverview Center for Growth. “While this transition marks the end of our Youth Mobile Crisis contract, Riverview remains fully operational and committed to serving our community through our broader continuum of programs and services.”

LCBH is a division of Lane County Health & Human services and encompasses a broad array of services and programs, including: Lane County Behavioral Health Clinic, Lane County Treatment Services, and LaneCare. LCBH provides outpatient behavioral health services including therapy, case management, medication management, and peer support to adults, children, and families residing in Lane County.

At 07:20 this morning Sweet Home Fire was dispatched for a house fire that was reported to be fully engulfed. The single occupant of the home escaped the fire and reported that it started when she struck a match to light her woodstove and the head of the matchstick broke off falling onto the couch. She attempted to remove the burning couch but was not able to and was forced to evacuate the home. The fire quickly spread throughout the double-wide manufactured home, and was called into 911 by neighbors. The Incident Commander requested a second-alarm assignment upon leaving the station when a large header of smoke could be seen. The first fire unit arrived on scene at 07:26 and found half of the structure fully involved with flames from every window and venting through the roof, while the other half of the structure was charged with black smoke. Engine crews arrived and had water on the fire at 07:33 and the fire was knocked down at 07:45. Water supply was provided by tender shuttle utilizing water tenders from Sweet Home, Lebanon, and Brownsville. Crews remained on scene overhauling the structure for 3 more hours as access was difficult due to the heavy structural damage making it unsafe for firefighters to enter all areas of the home. The second alarm assignment resources included an engine, water tender and Battalion Chief from Lebanon Fire, and a water tender from Brownsville Fire. In total there were 12 units on scene and 24 firefighters. No firefighters were injured, however one person was transported to a local hospital by ambulance for evaluation. The home and its contents are a complete loss, and a vehicle that was parked near the home sustained minor damage from radiant heat.

YONCALLA, Ore. - A Drain man died in a single-vehicle crash Friday afternoon near Yoncalla. 

Shortly after 2:45 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, 9-1-1 dispatchers received a report of a vehicle crash in the 10000 block of Elkhead Road. The crash had been discovered by a FedEx driver who alerted the homeowner. 

Deputies, along with fire and EMS personnel, responded to the scene. The first arriving deputy discovered a white 2009 Kia Rio in a field approximately 200 feet from the roadway. The driver, identified as 33-year-old Nicholas Rex Snyder of Drain, had been ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The crash remains under investigation at this time. Anyone with information or knowledge of events leading up to the crash is encouraged to contact the Douglas County Sheriff's Office at (541) 440-4471 referencing case #26-0726.

The Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene by North Douglas Fire & EMS, the Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office, and Lougheads Towing. 

Next of kin notifications have been made. 

Salem, Oregon – Emma Keen, a high school junior at Oregon School for the Deaf in Salem, is Oregon’s 2026 Poetry Out Loud champion. Keen received the top score at Saturday's Poetry Out Loud State Contest, held at Salem's Historic Grand Theatre. She will now represent Oregon at the Poetry Out Loud National Finals, to be held April 27-29 in Washington, D.C.

Bena (Bee-nah) Rodecap, a senior who attends Grant High School in Portland, was named runner up. Rodecap would be invited to represent Oregon in the national competition should Keen be unable to attend.

Watch video of Keen's performance and the moment she was named champion by Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the event. View and download event high-resolution photos, also featuring the First Lady and 2020-2024 Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, who performed at the event.

Since 2005, over 4.5 million high school students across the nation have participated in Poetry Out Loud. The program in Oregon is made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Oregon Arts Commission and jurisdictional arts agencies.

During Poetry Out Loud, students recite works in a dynamic competition and performance. They select poems from an anthology, memorize them, and are judged on criteria like physical presence, voice and articulation, and dramatic appropriateness. Poetry Out Loud helps students improve public speaking skills, build confidence and grow their appreciation for poetry.

Keen, who is student body president at Oregon School for the Deaf, decided to participate in Poetry Out Loud with the encouragement of her educator, Gayle Robertson. She chose to recite “Low-Tide," by Edna St. Vincent Millay, “From One Who Stays" by Amy Lowell and “I am Like a Leaf" by Yone Noguchi.

“I am so grateful for this experience," Keen said after being named champion. “I loved having my family here to support me. It’s been really amazing.”

Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson, who attended the event, announced the winner from the 11 contestants.

“These students demonstrated the transformative power of poetry and the importance of investing in arts education,” Kotek Wilson said. “These students are creating connections, expressing themselves freely, and showing us the bright future of Oregon's arts community.”

Rodecap, the runner up, said she has a love of poetry and writing, and thanked her English educator, Paige Battle, for her “tireless dedication.”

“Poetry Out Loud provides an incredible opportunity for students to practice resilience through art,” said Carli Jones, an American Sign Language and interpreting educator who for a second year helped judge the state competition. “It was wonderful to be in community with such talented and kind artists."

The other nine students who competed Saturday, after winning their school competitions and advancing from the semifinals, are:

• Alida Shi Lyons, Cleveland High School (Portland)
• Ariana Morris, Redmond High School (Redmond)
• Drishti Singh, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego)
• Gabriel Hall, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton)
• Josiah Gaither, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton)
• Kaydence Pope, South Medford High School (Medford)
• Molly Wheeler, South Medford High School (Medford)
• Rain Obiesie, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego)
• Samantha Faulkner, Trinity Academy (Portland).

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The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. The Arts Commission is part of Business Oregon in recognition of the vital role the arts play in supporting the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

The dog park at Armitage Park will temporarily close beginning the week of March 9 for construction related to improvements funded by the 2022 Lane County Parks Levy.

The project will improve safety and accessibility at the park, including construction of a separate RV entrance so large vehicles no longer pass through the dog park area. Additional upgrades include two covered pavilions, ADA-accessible pathways, lighting, parking lot paving, and improved vehicle circulation.

Construction is expected to last approximately two months, with the dog park anticipated to reopen by the end of May. Updates will be posted on the Lane County Parks Levy Projects page.

During the closure, nearby dog parks include:

• Alton Baker Dog Park
• Amazon Dog Park
• Candlelight Park
• Lone Oak Park
• Jefferson Park
• Morse Ranch Park
• Willamalane Lively Dog Park
• Washington Jefferson Dog Park

Lane County Parks appreciates the community’s patience during construction and looks forward to reopening an improved dog park later this spring.

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The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined a Gresham roofing contractor $113,852 for repeatedly failing to protect workers from fall hazards that could seriously injure or kill them.

The division cited New Exteriors LLC after an inspection of a jobsite in Lake Oswego where work was being done on the roof of a multistory house.

The company did not ensure that an employee – who was installing composite shingles – was protected against a potential fall, according to Oregon OSHA’s findings. The company failed to provide a fall protection system, exposing the employee to falling as much as 12 feet to the ground. New Exteriors violated an Oregon OSHA rule requiring employers to provide, install, and implement fall protection systems where employees are exposed to a hazard of falling 6 feet or more to a lower level.

This was the fourth time since May 2023 that New Exteriors violated fall protection requirements. Oregon OSHA rated the severity of the fourth-repeat violation as “death,” because the typical result of the hazard would be the death of an employee. The division issued a penalty of $113,852 for the fourth-repeat violation. Under Oregon OSHA’s rules, penalties multiply when employers commit repeat offenses. Oregon OSHA also issued an “other-than-serious” citation to the company for not documenting that an employee received training in fall protection systems.

Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions, and to raise concerns free of retaliation. The law requires employers to create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces. In the construction industry, falls are one of the leading causes of death.

“Working at heights is dangerous. That is why there are clear and effective safety standards in place to address the very real risk of a worker falling,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Any employer who directs employees to work at heights must account for fall hazards from the standpoint of prevention.”

Oregon OSHA’s enforcement program is rooted in prevention and requiring employers to correct violations. New Exteriors corrected the violations during the inspection.

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal. New Exteriors has filed an appeal of the citation.

Employers are encouraged to use free resources – available now from Oregon OSHA and involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – for help protecting their employees:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Oregon OSHA also offers free fall protection video training in English and Spanish, and key information for employers and workers.

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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.

Over 164 Pounds of Fentanyl Powder and Over 200 Pounds of Methamphetamine

SPOKANE, Wash. – On March 3, 2026, the Drug Enforcement Administration executed federal search warrants at multiple locations in the Tri-Cities, Washington area that resulted in the largest seizure of controlled substances in EDWA history.

The federal search warrants were based on an ongoing drug trafficking investigation into Amador Sanchez and several co-conspirators. The investigation revealed Sanchez utilized multiple residences, including at least one residence in each of the Tri-Cities, to facilitate and conceal his illegal activities. Notably, Sanchez was on federal supervised release stemming from a previous federal drug trafficking conviction. The investigation is ongoing and Indictments are expected to be presented to a federal grand jury.

In total, approximately over 200 pounds of methamphetamine, over 164 pounds of powdered fentanyl, and over 5 pounds of cocaine were seized along with approximately $2,000,000 in U.S. Currency and 16 firearms were seized. Please note these are preliminary estimates.

“This historic seizure, the largest in the history of the Eastern District of Washington, marks significant progress toward a Fentanyl Free America,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The extraordinary amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine removed from the Tri-Cities area would have devastated families and communities. Through strong enforcement, strategic partnerships, and increased public awareness, DEA remains unwavering in its commitment to disrupt the fentanyl supply chain and save American lives.”

“Removing this historic quantity of poison from our community is a true testament to the dedication, partnerships and tireless efforts of our team and our law enforcement partners,” said First Assistant Pete Serrano. “Removing this quantity of drugs, guns, and money from our communities will save lives – protecting the public will always be the top priority of my office and our state and federal partners. This is another example of excellent law enforcement collaboration and commitment to public safety.”

The charges contained in any Indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
 

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Tri-Cities Resident Office, which includes state law enforcement partners as well as federal agents from the United States Border Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, United States Marshals, and Homeland Security Investigations.

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Salem, OR—Are you looking for a free option to file your taxes? Want to get your refund faster than filing a paper return? Direct File Oregon is the best of both worlds.

Taxpayers accustomed to filling out paper returns, can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and then use Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state.

“If you are used to filling out your taxes on a paper return, Free Fillable Forms is perfect for you. It is just like filling out a paper return, except on a computer screen,” said Megan Denison, Personal Tax and Compliance Division administrator for the Oregon Department of Revenue. “Using Direct File Oregon is as simple as answering a few questions. The result could save you weeks waiting on your refund.”

“You can even use a public access computer in one of the Department of Revenue regional offices across the state,” Denison added.

Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is a free interview-based program similar to commercial software and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online. More than 3,500 taxpayers have already used Direct File Oregon this year. That’s right on pace with last year, when 14,000 Oregon taxpayers filed directly with the state.

The IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue late last year. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns won’t begin until the end of March. The first refunds for e-filed returns were issued in mid-February. Refunds for paper filed returns won’t start until next month.

Oregon is returning $1.41 billion in surplus revenue to taxpayers in 2026. Known as the “kicker,” it will either decrease the amount of state taxes you owe or increase your Oregon state income tax refund.

The best part is Free Fillable Forms and Direct File Oregon have no income restrictions.

Other free filing software options

Newly available this year is GetYourRefund.org which provides free federal and state tax preparation options:

• File Myself: Access to self-prep software to file federal and state returns for free, with IRS-certified chat support. Income must be under $89,000.
• File with Help: Virtual 1:1 expert tax prep provided through collaboration with local VITA programs. Suggested income under $69,000.
• VITA Site Location Finder: Simple, mobile-friendly tool to find in-person VITA sites. Suggested income under $69,000.

Email and live chat support is available in English and Spanish.

Free guided tax preparation is available from three other companies that participate in the Free File Alliance for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’s website ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free. These free services work much like the popular pay to file programs.

Each company has different requirements for who qualifies for free filing and offers must be accessed from the links on the department’s website.

• If your AGI is $32,000 or less, you can use 1040NOW, which includes your Oregon return.
• If your AGI is $51,000 or less (or $89,000 or less and active military), you can use OLT or FreeTaxUSA, which includes your Oregon return.
• If your AGI is $19,000-89,000 and age 67 or younger, you can use TaxSlayer, which includes your Oregon return.

The department offers computer kiosks in its five regional offices for taxpayers who don’t have a computer or access to one. The kiosks are available during regular business hours in the DOR regional offices in Bend, 951 SW Simpson Ave, Suite 100;  Eugene, 1600 Valley River Drive, Suite 310; Gresham, 1550 NW Eastman Parkway, Suite 220; Medford, 3613 Aviation Way, Suite 102; and Portland, 800 NE Oregon St, Suite 505.

They can be used to file with any of the free file options or to transfer their information from a paper return to Free Fillable Forms.

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WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management sold 27.6 million board feet of timber across 1,255 public acres in Oregon, for a total of $8,327,275, and indicates a strong demand in American lumber manufacturing by exceeding total appraised values by over $3 million. This timber will feed local mills and support jobs in local communities.

The Coos Bay District sold the Eckley Empanada timber tract (1.8 million board feet, 105 public acres) to Harveys' Selective Logging, Inc., of Creswell, Ore., for $$142,228.

The Medford District sold the Thom Bone timber tract (6 million board feet, 585 public acres) to Estremado Logging Inc. of Gold Hill, Ore., for $458,766.

The Northwest Oregon District sold the Gopher Broke timber tract (7 million board feet, 223 public acres) to Boise Cascade Wood Products of Willamina, Ore., for $2,499,716; and the John Boy timber tract (8 million board feet, 167 public acres) to Rosboro Company, LLC, of Springfield, Ore., for $3,913,070.

The Roseburg District sold the Muley Mount timber tract (5 million board feet, 175 public acres) to Scott Timber Company of Roseburg, Ore., for $1,313,495.

The BLM plans to hold seven sales during March 2026 to offer 56.9 million board feet of timber across 1,939 public acres in Oregon.

The BLM manages 58 million acres of forests, including 2.4 million acres in western Oregon of some of the most productive forests in the world, and is committed to supplying a reliable, secure, and resilient domestic supply of timber. BLM forestry supports economic security, reduces risks from wildfire, conserves fish and wildlife habitat, and decreases costs of energy production. Local communities rely on jobs that come from BLM forests, and timber from public land feeds local industry.

Each year, the BLM forestry program's sales support approximately 2,000 jobs nationally and generate more than $1 billion for local economies.

More than 20 percent of BLM-managed lands are forest and woodland ecosystems. The BLM ensures the health and resilience of these public forest lands as well as the availability of traditional forest products, such as timber. In fiscal year 2025, the BLM offered 301 million board feet of timber under new sales, good neighbor agreements, and stewardship contracts.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

On February 27, 2026, Rigoberto Lezama-Luna, age 38 of Springfield, OR, was arrested after attempting to pick up a minor at an undisclosed location in Lincoln City. Lezama-Luna is accused of sending sexually charged messages through social media to an undercover Officer posing as a minor. Lezama-Luna was transported to the Lincoln County Jail for Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child 1st Degree.

On March 5, 2026, a Lincoln County Grand Jury issued a True Bill Indictment against Lezama-Luna for the crimes.

The Lincoln City Police want to encourage parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in a continuing effort to protect our children from predators who target children for sexual exploitation and to reduce crime and further enhance the safety of our community. We would like to thank the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office - Oregon for their assistance in investigation, and the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office for their support of these operations.

On January 6^th, two Albany Police Department officers shot and injured 21 year old Maverick Lyon after being dispatched to a residence on a report of one brother being held at knife point by a another brother.  When one of the brothers, Maverick Lyon, quickly exited the residence, holding a large fixed blade knife, Officers Matt Thomas and Engle Diaz fired their pistols in response.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office conducted an independent investigation, led by Lt. David Iverson, and made that evaluation available to my office for consideration.  My Chief DDA, Amie Matusko, has conducted a legal analysis of the matter, which is attached and incorporated by reference here. 

The question to be answered is whether the officers’ decision to fire their duty pistols was based on an objectively reasonable belief that doing so was necessary to prevent serious injury or death to themselves or their fellow officers.

In conducting my evaluation, I have the benefit of hindsight.  I am also privy to more specific information about the events leading up to the shooting than were the officers.  I have the ability to watch video evidence, in slow motion, over and over again, from several different angles.

However, the evaluation must be made in light of what the officers knew and perceived leading up to and at the exact time their decision was made.  In this case, the officers, in real time, had only fractions of a second to decide how to act.

Later investigation revealed that Maverick was the victim being held at knife point by his brother, John “Dakota” Lyon.  Dakota’s criminal acts led to the police being called to the scene.  Dakota has now been charged with kidnapping and other crimes, and will be held accountable for those crimes.

Maverick’s efforts to escape his brother, even while he still held a second knife, unknown to the officers, must be viewed through the lens of the extreme stress and fear he must have felt.  I have read on social media that some have said “the police shot the wrong guy.” In a purely moral sense, no one “deserves” to be shot, least of all the victim who was seeking help.  The fact that things unfolded as they did is an absolute tragedy.  Though I have not spoken with the officers, I am confident they would not have wished it to turn out that way.

Here, though, my duty comes down to answering the legal question.  In this case, it is my determination that the decisions of Officers Thomas and Diaz to fire their duty weapons in this case was based on an objectively reasonable belief that to do so was necessary in order to protect their own lives or the lives of fellow officers.  

Ryan S. Joslin

Benton County District Attorney

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (3 March 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help identifying the person(s) responsible for the possible unlawful take of two young bull elk in Crook County.

On March 3, 2026, OSP investigated a report of two elk carcasses dumped on U.S. Forest Service land along Mill Creek Road, just east of Prineville. Troopers found the legs and heads of two young bull elk which had been discarded off the side of Mill Creek Road. Both bulls were missing their antlers.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677), or email at TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case number SP26-072453.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

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About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.

Tillamook State Forest, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Tillamook Forest Center (TFC) will hold a Volunteer Open House Saturday from 1-3 p.m.

“Volunteers are a key part of the team that makes the Tillamook Forest Center such a great place for our visitors,” said Denise Berkshire, Director of the TFC.  “People ask us a lot of questions about how to volunteer and what volunteers can do here, so we thought it would be great to have a dedicated day to explain how folks can share their love of the forest.”  

During this first ever Volunteer Open House potential volunteers will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the center, meet the TFC’s friendly team, and learn how they can help share the forest’s story with visitors.

There are three main roles for volunteers at the TFC: field trip assistant, information desk greeter, and facilities and grounds assistant.

“If you want to inspire the next generation then consider helping out as a field trip assistant during our forestry field trips programs,” said Berkshire. “If you love to talk with people and want to be the welcoming face of the center then an information desk greeter is a great fit.  On the other hand, if you like to work outdoors or like to organize and tidy up then volunteering as a facilities and grounds assistant might be for you.”

And once you find your perfect fit at the open house you can apply on-site Saturday. To register for the Volunteer Open House, email:  pretationandEducation@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">TFC.InterpretationandEducation@odf.oregon.gov with your name and potential interest area.

Consider bringing others along for the day even if they are not ready to volunteer. They can see the innovative programs and hands-on exhibits in the 13,500 square-foot center. The goal of the TFC is for visitors to gain a greater understanding about what a forest is, how it works, and forest history. Discover the power of fire through the award-winning film Legacy of Fire, the miracle of the salmon lifecycle, and the resilient, dynamic, and productive nature of state forests.

 There is also plenty to explore outside the center including: A 40-foot-tall fire lookout tower that offers a unique view of the area and the surrounding forest canopy. A 250-foot-long suspension bridge over the Wilson River and interpretative trails that lead from the building, through the woods and along the river, providing insight into the past, present, and future of the forest. Plus, much more. 

For Immediate Release: March 5, 2026

Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov

Governor Tina Kotek Press Office: nors.press@oregon.gov">governors.press@oregon.gov

Employment Department Shares Plan to Improve Customer Service and Strengthen Oregon’s Workforce System

The agency outlines 101 prioritized actions and long-term initiatives, many already underway

SALEM, Ore. —  The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has released a comprehensive report on its ongoing effort to improve customer service and strengthen Oregon’s public workforce system. The action plan meets expectations outlined by Governor Tina Kotek and demonstrates progress already underway under Director Andrew R. Stolfi.

“Oregonians deserve the best customer service we can provide to make sure they have what they need, especially in times of employment transition,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “The department is taking these issues head on, and the action areas identified in the director’s report will help get us there.”

At the Governor’s direction, OED conducted a review of the customer experience across Unemployment Insurance (UI), Paid Leave Oregon (Paid Leave), Contributions & Recovery (C&R), WorkSource Oregon (WSO), and the Frances Online system. The resulting Customer Service and Workforce Strategies Action Plan includes a prioritized list of 101 customer-focused action steps that fall into four main categories:

• Customer service improvements
• Organizational improvements
• Improvements to Frances Online
• Improvements to the public workforce system

The actions range from high-impact, short-term initiatives to long-term system changes, with the following projects as the highest, most immediate priorities:

• Use AI-assisted tools to improve customer service and employee workflows for faster resolution of common and complex issues.
• Review and simplify all customer-facing communications so customers better understand OED’s processes and can more easily receive benefits.
• Equip WorkSource Oregon centers with additional tools to help customers navigate UI claims.
• Improve how the agency collects and analyzes data to support well-informed goal setting, process improvement, and accountability.
• Create an online live claim status tracker so customers know where they are and what to expect at each step of the process for Paid Leave Oregon and UI.
• Consolidate Title I and Title III Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) administration and funding within OED to improve efficiency and accountability within Oregon’s public workforce system.

“This action plan reflects OED’s deep commitment to improving the services we provide,” OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “It draws from our strengths and is centered on the customer experience, which is where our focus will remain.

When Stolfi joined OED as director, the Governor asked him to lead a thorough review of the agency and develop a comprehensive plan to improve customer service and advance OED’s workforce development mission. In pursuing this directive, OED gathered extensive feedback from across the state through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with more than 5,000 customers, 850 employees, and 240 frontline staff. That feedback revealed clear, consistent themes across programs and communities, including the need for clearer, faster, and more predictable service for Paid Leave and UI customers, and simpler processes and clearer guidance for employers that engage with OED’s business services.

“Our goal was to identify what is working, where barriers exist, and what improvements will make the greatest difference for the people and businesses we serve,” said Director Stolfi. “You can draw a direct line between the feedback we received and the actions outlined in this plan.”

A plan summary, a categorized list of prioritized actions, and the full action plan are available on the OED website. OED will continue to share progress updates and engage with customers, partners, and the public as we move forward.

“We’ve already started working on many of these projects, and Oregonians should expect to see many changes and improvements in the coming months,” Stolfi said. “Customer service is our top priority, and we will not rest until every Oregonian gets the services they expect in a timely manner.”

The agency has already improved in some key customer service metrics. For example, from July 2025 through January 2026 in Unemployment Insurance, the average time to answer a call was 22 minutes faster than the same seven-month period the prior year, despite a 13.6 percent increase in initial claims filed. The Paid Leave program has also reduced the average time it takes for staff to decide on a claim by 5.8 days, despite a 17.6 percent increase in application volume. This indicates improvements in operational efficiency, even while more Oregonians are using these programs.

“We are encouraged by the progress we’ve already made but recognize that we must continue improving in order to provide the level of customer service Oregonians deserve,” Stolfi said. “This plan lays out exactly how we’ll do that.”

About the Oregon Employment Department

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) provides economic stability to Oregon communities by providing vital services to both businesses and workers.  OED supports businesses with finding qualified job candidates, labor market information, tax incentives and support, and retaining talent through economic downturns. OED promotes employment through wage replacement benefits during unemployment and significant life events, job placement, training, and useful career information. Learn more at employment.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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Salem – In observation of National Consumer Protection Week, the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is partnering with local and national agencies to empower consumers to avoid, report, and recover from fraud.

“Financial fraud is an increasingly pervasive problem here in Oregon and across the country,” said TK Keen, Oregon insurance commissioner and DFR administrator. “Scammers are inundating Oregon consumers with romance, affinity, and investment scams and false claims that they owe money.”

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Oregonians lost over $133 million to fraud in 2025. National Consumer Protection Week is an annual initiative sponsored by the FTC bringing together federal, state, and local agencies, along with private and nonprofit partners, to provide resources and educational tools to help investors avoid scams and protect their financial well-being. DFR is coordinating, along with AARP, several Fraud Fighter events in April on the following dates:

• April 11 in Springfield at the Riverbend Hospital
• April 17 in Medford at Rogue Community College
• April 28 in Portland at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

Each of those events will begin at 8:30 a.m. with check-in, followed by a 9 a.m. to noon town hall with presentations, question and answer time, and panel discussions.

This week’s campaign is to remind people to slow down and verify information before acting. Fraud does not always look dramatic or complicated. It often looks ordinary – a text from a delivery company, a call from someone claiming to be your bank, a message from a grandchild in trouble. The common theme is urgency – to take immediate action.

Common fraud tactics

While schemes change over time, many rely on the same basic strategies:

• Imposter scams: A caller claims to represent a bank, government agency, law enforcement office, or utility company. They may demand payment or ask for account information.
• Account alerts and phishing texts: Messages warn of “suspicious activity” and direct you to click a link. The goal is to capture your login credentials or personal identification information.
• Investment fraud: Promises of high or guaranteed returns, especially involving cryptocurrency or new trading platforms. Fraudsters often build trust before asking for money. These may even include fake investment platforms that disappear once the scammers have your money.
• Romance scams: Someone builds a relationship online, then requests financial help for an emergency, travel costs, or investment opportunity.
• Payment redirection: A message says you owe money and must pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate businesses and government agencies do not demand payment this way.

What to do before you respond

Fraud prevention does not require special tools. It requires a pause. Make time to verify who is contacting you, what the “emergency” is and where the money is going.

If you receive an unexpected call, text, or email:

• Don’t click links or open attachments.
• Don’t share account numbers, Social Security numbers, or one-time passcodes.
• Hang up and contact the company directly using a verified phone number from its official website or your account statement.
• Take time to think. Fraud often depends on urgency.

If someone asks you to move money quickly, buy gift cards, send cryptocurrency, or keep the request secret, recognize these as warning signs of potential fraud.

Protecting your financial accounts

Basic steps can help reduce risk:

• Use strong, unique passphrases for financial accounts.
• Enable multi-factor authentication when available.
• Review bank and credit card statements regularly.
• Check your credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. (You can do this weekly!)
• Place a free fraud alert or credit freeze if you suspect identity theft.

These actions will not eliminate all risk, but they make it harder for someone to misuse your information.

Investment and licensing checks

Before sending money for an investment or working with a financial services provider, verify that the person or company is properly licensed or registered in Oregon. Make certain that the investment platform you’re being asked to use is real. You can also call one of DFR’s consumer advocates at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialeserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

A practical approach to prevention

Fraud prevention is not about being suspicious of everything. It is about building habits: Pause. Verify. Do not send money under pressure. National Consumer Protection Week is a reminder that consumer protection is a shared responsibility. Regulators like DFI enforce licensing laws and investigate complaints. Financial institutions monitor accounts. At the end of the day, however, individuals make the final decision to send money or share information.

A brief pause can interrupt a scam. That pause can protect not only your finances, but also your time and peace of mind.

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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.

DATA PRIVACY
 

Unfortunately, every year thousands of Oregonians fall victim to online criminals who disguise themselves as established organizations or businesses. Internet scams continue to evolve and become harder to recognize. The term cyber-criminal, generally refers to someone using internet services or software to take advantage of victims. Cyber-criminals and other scammers have become quite skilled in getting you to provide your personal information in a variety of ways. Some scammers are selling “official merchandise” while others ask you to pay fees urgently to avoid serious consequences (which are not real). Another popular scam is the click-bait link or file attachment that collects your data by inviting you to open it from a message such as “I think you know this person that was in this car accident” or “Your account has been suspended, click here to reset your password”. But of course, when you click these links you get viruses or are directed to give your personal information to “reset your account” or login. When in doubt don’t open the link, instead open a new browser and pull up the organization’s official website or call their official number.

Here are a few tips to keep you safer from scams and cybercrimes:

• Use caution, especially with those you are not familiar with.
  • When you receive uninvited contacts from people or businesses, whether it's over the phone, by mail, email, in person, or on social media, always consider the possibility that the interaction may be a scam.
  • Remember to call or log on to the organization’s real website to verify the information you’ve been given is accurate.

• Protect your passwords and personal information.
  • Always use password protection.
  • Don’t share account or password information with others.
  • Update security software and back up content regularly.
  • Protect your WiFi network with a password.
  • Avoid using public computers or WiFi hotspots to access online banking or to provide personal information for services.

• Ignore unfamiliar attachments or links.
  • Don’t click on links, open attachments, attempt to unsubscribe, or call any telephone number listed in suspicious messages.
  • Do NOT give any money, credit card info, or other personal details.
  • When in doubt, look up the organization’s website or phone number and contact them directly.

If you have information about or have fallen victim to a scam, please contact the Oregon Attorney General's Consumer Hotline at 1-877-877-9392 or online at www.oregonconsumer.gov

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

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County Sheriff's Office would like to announce a test of the Linn-Benton ALERT system on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

The test will cover all of Benton County. All traditional land phone lines in the 9-1-1 database will receive the message. Those who have registered other devices with Linn-Benton ALERT will also receive the test message.

The Linn-Benton ALERT Emergency Notification System is a mass notification system that allows public safety officials to provide rapid notifications to Linn and Benton County residents of emergencies, evacuations, and other urgent events.

There will be no reason to call the Sheriff’s Office once you receive the message; please do not dial 9-1-1.

Residents can sign up for the Linn-Benton ALERT system as well as learn about emergency preparedness at https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/linn-benton-alert/.  As a reminder, each person in the household hoping to receive alerts will need their own profile/account. After signing up for the alerts you will receive all emergency-related notifications related to your location.

For questions on the mass notification system, email gencymanagement@bentoncountyor.gov">emergencymanagement@bentoncountyor.gov or call 541-766-6864.

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Salem, Ore. – One of Oregon Lottery's most popular games is close to selling out. The annual Raffle game features a one-in-250,000 chance to win the $1 million top prize. As of this morning, less than 65,000 tickets remain. It has routinely sold out since the game was added to the Oregon Lottery portfolio in 2009, and all tickets were gone by March 7 in 2025. In fact, the only year the game did not sell out was due to extended ice and power outages across Oregon in 2019.

The winning Raffle numbers will be announced on Tuesday, March 17 and the last day of sales is March 13, unless a sell out happens sooner. The Raffle offers the best odds of any Oregon Lottery game to win $1 million. There are also 300 prizes of $500 and 1,500 of $100. To check the winning Raffle numbers, players can use the Lottery’s mobile app, visit oregonlottery.org/raffle, or visit a participating Oregon Lottery retail location.

“The Raffle brings the excitement of a $1 million winner each year for our players,” said Tina Erickson, Oregon Lottery’s product manager. “We’ve had winners come from communities big and small across the state.”  

The $500 and $100 prize winners can claim their prizes at any Oregon Lottery retail location. Players can also claim their prize by mail – visit https://www.oregonlottery.org/claim-a-prize/ for instructions. The $1 million Raffle prize winner will need to make an appointment with the Oregon Lottery office in Salem or Wilsonville. Please call 1-800-766-6789 for assistance.

The Oregon Lottery reminds players to always sign the back of their Lottery tickets, regardless of the game. In the event of winning a jackpot, they should consult with a trusted financial advisor or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings.

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state  parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.