Regional News Archives for 2015-04

House Approves "Ban The Box" Legislation

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill that would ban employers from asking about criminal convictions on their initial job applications is advancing in the Oregon Legislature.  The House has approved the measure, which officials say would still allow the question to be raised during an interview and would not prevent criminal background checks.  The measure will now head to the Senate for consideration.

Babysitter Accused In Death Of Infant

(Oregon City, OR)  --  A woman is facing a manslaughter charge in the death of an infant she was babysitting in Oregon City.  Thirty-seven-year-old Sarah Elizabeth Martin has been arrested in the death of seven-month-old Izaak Gillen, who died on April 7th.  Authorities say the child was brought to a hospital the day before, and physicians discovered the baby's skull was fractured.  Bail for Martin is set at a quarter-million dollars.

Obama To Visit Portland Area Next Week

(Washington, DC)  --  The White House says President Barack Obama will be in Portland next Thursday for a fundraiser that will cost at least 500-dollars per ticket.  Officials say plans are also being made for the President to attend a pro-trade event on Friday, possibly at Nike.  The "Oregonian" reports the President is battling with Congress over legislation that's key to the fate of a massive trade pact, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which involves the U.S. and eleven other Pacific Rim nations.  Nike and other global companies are supporters of free-trade agreements that they say increase worldwide sales.

Building Renovation Nearly Double Original Cost Estimate

(Portland, OR)  --  It will cost a lot more to renovate the Portland Building than originally thought.  The "Oregonian" reports the new estimate for Portland's administrative headquarters is now 175-million-dollars, nearly double the original estimate of 95-point-four-million-dollars.  The renovations are designed to correct seismic deficiencies and repair water damage.  The new estimate comes after Portland's top administrator recommended gutting the Portland Building, renovating its interior and replacing nearly all of its mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
 

Fuel Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of filling your gas tank in the Portland area keeps rising.  Triple-A reports the average for a gallon of regular is about two-85, nearly two-cents higher than yesterday's average.  It's also 12-cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Washington, Oregon Have High ID Theft Complaint Rates

(Undated)  --  A new report shows Washington and Oregon have among the highest rates of identity-theft complaints in the nation.  The Identity Theft Resource Center says Washington had about 155 ID theft complaints per 100-thousand people in 2014, good for second-highest in the U.S.  Oregon is third with about 125 complaints per 100-thousand.  Florida had the highest ID theft complaint rate, with about 186 per 100-thousand people.

Three Washington County Deputies Investigated For Sexual Misconduct

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Three Washington County sheriff's deputies are on paid administrative leave while they're under investigation for sexual misconduct.  "The Oregonian" reports the investigation began after the agency received an anonymous letter which claims the deputies engaged in sexual acts while on duty.  The letter also reportedly claims deputies had sex with new female deputies who were being evaluated and trained.  KGW-TV reports the Portland Police Bureau is investigating the allegations.

Bill Would Restrict Use Of Left Lane On Highways

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon lawmakers are advancing a measure that's intended to keep drivers from lingering in the left lane along highways in the state.  The House has approved the bill, which would only allow driving in the left lane on highways for those preparing to make a left turn, passing another car, following traffic control devices, or in the midst of an emergency response.  The bill now heads to the Senate.

Tax Initiative Charge Drivers By The Mile

(Salem, OR)  --  The Oregon Department of Transportation has an initiative underway that could replace the current state gas tax.  Residents can volunteer to participate in the program, in which a per-mile road-usage tax will be used to fund road and bridge projects across Oregon.  Supporters of the idea say gas-tax revenue is falling off because of more fuel-efficient gas vehicles and more electric and hybrid cars on the road.

Police Look For Suspect In NE Portland Break-in

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are looking for a man who broke into a Northeast Portland home and got into bed with an eleven-year-old girl.  Authorities say the man didn't harm or touch the child, but got up and left the home through a window when the girl awakened early yesterday morning.  Police say the incident happened at a townhome in the area of Northeast Cully Boulevard and Killingsworth Street.  Officials say the suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his mid-20s, five-feet-seven, medium build, with both ears pierced.

Fuel Prices Increase

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A reports gas prices are still rising in the Portland area.  The average for regular is up two-and-a-half cents from yesterday, to two-dollars 84-cents a gallon.  That's 12-cents above the average of a week ago.

Teen Charged In Fatal Hit-and-run Appears In Court

(Portland, OR)  --  Bail is set at a half-million dollars for a 19-year-old, who's accused of hitting and killing a pedestrian and then driving away.  Police say Miranda Ashley Calvin had been drinking at a party prior to the deadly crash Saturday night in Gresham.  Authorities say 49-year-old Jerrie Ann Horning died at the scene and was found lying in the middle of West Powell Boulevard.  Calvin is scheduled to make her next court appearance on May 5th.

Two Escaped Inmates Back In Custody

(North Bend, OR)  --  Two inmates who escaped from the Shutter Creek Correctional Institution in North Bend are back behind bars.  Authorities say Daniel Fullmer, who's from the Clackamas area, and Harland Brown escaped from the jail Sunday.  They were apprehended yesterday morning.  Fullmer was serving time for burglary and theft, and Brown was serving a sentence for meth possession and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Teen Killed In Longboard Accident

(Salem, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies are investigating after a Salem teen died in a longboarding accident.  Authorities say Joshua Robertson, who was a senior at West Salem High School, was riding his longboard with a friend along Northwest Eagle Crest Road in Salem yesterday when he lost control and fell backwards.  Deputies say Robertson hit his head on the pavement when he fell.  He died later at a hospital.

Man Gets 92-month Sentence For Sex Trafficking

(Seattle, WA)  --  A Washington man is scheduled to spend nearly eight years in federal prison for sex-trafficking.  Thirty-three-year-old John Henry "Lucky" Cyprian was arrested last June and later pleaded guilty to two counts of human trafficking.  Authorities say the case involved two women who were forced to work as prostitutes in Washington and Oregon.  Prosecutors say Cyprian was also ordered to pay the two women nearly 162-thousand dollars in restitution.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area drivers are paying more for gasoline.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is two-81, up a penny-and-a-half from yesterday's average.  It's also eleven cents higher than a week ago.

Portland Man Accused Of Murdering Wife

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is set to be arraigned today in connection with the murder of his wife.  Authorities say John Coffey is accused of shooting 42-year-old Samantha Coffey to death in the couple's home on North Kerby Avenue.  Officials say John Coffey surrendered to officers after they arrived Saturday and found his wife's body.

Portland-area Gas Prices Higher

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area gas prices are steadily climbing.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is up about a penny from yesterday, to two-80 a gallon.  That's eleven cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Teen Arrested In Fatal Hit-and-run

(Gresham, OR)  --  A 19-year-old Gresham woman is facing charges, following a deadly hit-and-run crash.  Police say Miranda Ashley Calvin is accused of driving away from the scene of the crash that killed 49-year-old Gresham resident Jerrie Ann Horning.  The wreck happened Saturday night in the area of West Powell Boulevard and 182nd Avenue.  Calvin has been booked on charges that include manslaughter, felony hit-and-run, and reckless driving.

Uber, Lyft To Begin Operating Today In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  Ride-share companies Uber and Lyft are set to begin operating legally in Portland this afternoon.  It's the beginning of a 120-day pilot program allowing ride-shares to compete with traditional taxicab companies.  For the duration of the pilot program, cab companies will be able to set their fares as they see fit.  The Portland City Council approved the pilot program earlier this week.

Plane On Creswell-to-Vancouver Flight Still Missing

(Aurora, OR)  --  The search continues for a small plane that vanished during a flight from Creswell to Vancouver.  Officials say the Piper Cherokee was being flown by 41-year-old Lee Cheshire Leslie of Vancouver.  The plane disappeared sometime after leaving Hobby Field around 4:30 Tuesday afternoon.  KOIN-TV reports the search is being concentrated on a heavily-forested area that was on the original flight path.

Background-check Gun Bill Advances For Floor Vote

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill that would expand background checks to nearly all gun sales in Oregon is awaiting a floor vote in the House.  The Senate-passed measure was cleared yesterday by the House Rules Committee.  The bill would require private firearm sellers and purchasers to appear in person at a gun dealer, who would do the background check.  Governor Kate Brown says she supports the legislation.
 

Woman Accused Of Leaving Racist Messages On Neighbor's Door

(West Linn, OR)  --  A West Linn woman is facing charges of intimidation and harassment after being accused of leaving post-it notes containing racist messages on her neighbor's front door.  KATU-TV reports Eva Chapin left the messages following a dispute over parking.  Police say the notes contain racial slurs against the neighbor, who is African-American.

Bill Would Allow Motorcyclists To Ride Between Cars

(Salem, OR)  --  A move to allow motorcyclists to travel between cars is advancing in the Oregon Legislature.  The Senate has approved a bill allowing motorcycles to pass between cars or trucks during highway traffic jams.  Supporters of the measure say if motorcyclists are allowed able to move between cars during traffic tie-ups, it will reduce congestion and help keep them out of harm's way without having to break the law.  The bill now moves on to the House.

Suspicious Backpack Prompts Brief Closure Of Chapman Square

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland police are reporting that no explosives were found in a backpack that prompted a brief closure of Chapman Square.  Authorities say the unattended backpack was discovered yesterday, and police blocked off the square near the Federal Building.  A bomb-disposal unit investigated, and the all-clear was given a few minutes before three p.m.

Portland-area Gas Prices Up

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline in the Portland area is steadily moving up.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for a gallon of regular is just under two-75, which is nearly two cents higher than yesterday.  It's also about eight cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.
 

Man Charged In Deadly Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  A 20-year-old man is facing murder charges in connection with a shooting death in February.  Police say Timothy J. Noe is accused of gunning down Esteban Del Cid of Tualatin on February 28th in Northeast Portland.  The victim was taken to a hospital, where he later died.  Noe was taken into custody Tuesday.
 

Small Plane En Route To Vancouver Missing

(Cresswell, OR)  --  A small plane that took off from Creswell on a flight to Vancouver is missing.  The Oregon Civil Air Patrol began searching for the single-engine Piper Cherokee, which left Hobby Field around 4:30 yesterday afternoon.  The pilot is reported to be the only person on board.  The search is set to resume later this morning.

Body Found In Willamette River

(Portland, OR)  --  An autopsy is being conducted on a body that was found floating in the Willamette River.  Multnomah County sheriff's deputies say the body was seen by a boater shortly before noon yesterday near the St. Johns Bridge.  The identity of the body hasn't been released.

Report: Beaverton Officers Justified In Shooting Woman

(Beaverton, WA)  --  Two Beaverton police officers who shot a 29-year-old woman to death after she pointed an unloaded rifle at them won't face criminal charges.  The Washington County District Attorney's Office says officers Dan Coulson and James Beane were justified when they shot Chelsea Fresh outside her home last November.  Officials say Fresh moved toward the officers with the weapon.  Authorities say it wasn't until after she was shot that police found her gun wasn't loaded.

Climb In Gas Prices Continues

(Portland, OR)  --  Drivers in the Portland area are seeing a steady rise in gas prices.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-73 a gallon, a penny-and-a-half higher than yesterday.  It's also seven cents a gallon above the average of a week ago.

Portland Council Approves Ride-share Pilot Program

(Portland, OR)  --  Uber and other ride-share services will be allowed to operate in Portland during a 120-day pilot program.  The program was approved last night by the Portland City Council, which also voted to deregulate the taxi-cab industry for the duration of the pilot program.  City Commissioner Steve Novick says the experiment will provide fair competition.  Ride-share companies are expected to begin operating in Portland in the next few days.

Bush Raises Funds In Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  He's not an official candidate for president, but former Florida governor Jeb Bush stopped in Portland for two fundraisers.  Bush, whose father and brother are former presidents, appeared at a reception yesterday for photo-ops and handshakes.  Last night, Bush was at a 12-thousand-500-dollar-a-plate private dinner to raise money for his super-PAC Right to Rise.  He's expected to officially enter the presidential race in the coming weeks.

Four Arrested In Connection With Attack On Man

(Aloha, OR)  --  Four suspects are facing charges in connection with an attack on a man with a rubber mallet in Aloha.  Washington County sheriff's deputies say 20-year-old Mohamed Abukar, two 16-year-old males, and one 17-year-old male are accused of attacking the 39-year-old victim while he was walking his dog early yesterday morning.  Authorities say the man bought them beer as they requested and was returning with it when the attack began, and he was left with non-life-threatening injuries.  Two other suspects in the attack are still at large.

Firefighters Still At Scene Of Condo Fire

(Government Camp, OR)  --  Firefighters continue to extinguish hot spots at the site of a fire that turned a Government Camp condominium building into a total loss.  The fire, which started Monday afternoon, displaced at least five families from the 30-unit Golden Poles Chalet condos.  Investigators are trying to determine what caused the blaze.  There were no reports of injuries.

Wilsonville Extends Ban On Pot Retailers

(Wilsonville, OR)  --  The Wilsonville City Council says the city's ban on marijuana dispensaries will continue after a one-year moratorium on the businesses expires.  The moratorium is set to end on May 1st.  Officials say they won't allow pot businesses to operate in the Wilsonville city limits because marijuana is still outlawed by the federal government.  Oregon voters approved the legalization of recreational use of marijuana in November.

Gasoline Prices Rise

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area fuel prices are getting higher.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular at just under two-72 a gallon, a penny-and-a-half above yesterday's average.  It's also a nickel a gallon higher than a week ago.
 

One Killed, One Injured In Portland Crash

(Portland, OR)  --  One person is dead and another seriously injured, following a single-vehicle crash in Northeast Portland.  Police say alcohol was believed to be a factor in the wreck that took place around three o'clock yesterday morning in the area of Northeast Columbia Boulevard and 33rd Avenue.  The car slammed into a large concrete pillar under the 33rd Avenue overpass.  The passenger, 19-year-old Alexandria Cooper, was ejected from the vehicle and died, and the driver is being treated for serious injuries.

Sellwood Bridge Opens Ahead Of Schedule

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say they were able to re-open the Sellwood Bridge hours ahead of schedule after closing it for the weekend.  Crews worked on shifting traffic lanes for a new west side approach, and the bridge wasn't due to reopen until early this morning.  But traffic began flowing again at ten o'clock yesterday morning.  The bridge is being replaced because of structural problems.
 

Man Found Dead In Willamette River East Of Eugene

(Eugene, OR)  --  Lane County authorities say they've recovered the body of a man in the Willamette River between Jasper and Clearwater Landing.  Officials say the body was spotted yesterday afternoon by a group of people floating down the river.  Investigators believe the man fell from a boat that was later found about a half-mile from Jasper.  The man's name hasn't been released.

Portland Council To Vote On Ride-shares Tomorrow

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland City Council is scheduled to vote tomorrow on whether to approve a pilot program that could have ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operating in the city soon.  The proposal is backed by Mayor Charlie Hales and Commissioner Steve Novick.  It would also allow taxicab companies to set prices how they want while the pilot program is taking place.

Portland-area Gas Prices Up

(Portland, OR)  --  The latest Triple-A survey shows gas prices in the Portland area have gone up over the past week.  The average for regular is about two-68 a gallon, more than a penny higher than the average of a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-46 a gallon.

Man Seriously Wounded In Stabbing

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is being treated for a serious stab wound he suffered during an argument behind a Southeast Portland gas station.  Police say officers found the victim at a Shell station on Stark Street around one p.m. yesterday.  Authorities say the suspect, who's still at large, is a homeless man who's described as white, in his 20s, five-feet-seven, with a slim build and short, brown hair.
 

Report: Clark County Inmate Died Of Loss Of Oxygen

(Vancouver, WA)  --  Officials say a Clark County Jail inmate who suffered a medical emergency last month died of lack of oxygen to his brain.  Mycheal J. Lynch of Vancouver died on March 22nd, two days after being booked on multiple charges.  Authorities say Lynch resisted when deputies tried to move him and was restrained, after which the medical emergency took place.  The Clark County Sheriff's Office told "The Oregonian" the investigation into Lynch's death is continuing.

Bomb Threat Made At Lake Oswego Jr. High

(Lake Oswego, OR)  --  Police are investigating a bomb threat made at Lake Oswego Junior High School.  Bomb-disposal personnel searched the school yesterday morning after the threat, which had been written on a bathroom wall, was found.  Students were moved out of the school while the search took place.  No explosive devices were found and students returned to class.  
 

Shots Fired In Beaverton, No Injuries Reported

(Beaverton, OR)  --  Beaverton police report no known injuries after shots were fired yesterday afternoon.  Authorities say the gunshots were heard in the area between Hall Boulevard and Lombardi Avenue, and officers found several shell casings on Southwest 12th Street.  Officials say six people in an apartment in the area have been interviewed, but there's no word on a suspect.

WA Auditor Charged With Filing False Tax Returns

(Seattle, WA)  --  Washington State Auditor Troy Kelley is under federal indictment after being accused of filing false tax returns.  Kelley has pleaded not guilty to those counts, as well as charges of attempted obstruction and possession of stolen property.  The indictment charges that Kelley committed the crimes in connection with a mortgage title services company he led prior to his election in 2012.  Governor Jay Inslee and other state officials are calling on Kelley to resign.

New Multnomah Courthouse Site Chosen

(Portland, OR)  --  Land near the Hawthorne Bridge will be the site of a new Multnomah County courthouse.  County commissioners voted yesterday to choose the site following geotechnical tests.  The commissioners say the site was chosen because the land is already owned by the county.  Construction of the courthouse is slated to begin in late 2016.
 

Portland Teacher Accused Of Sending Personal Texts To Students

(Portland, OR)  --  A music teacher at Portland's Reynolds High School is accused of sending hundreds of personal text messages to students, even after being told to stop.  School district officials say Reynolds band teacher Justin Prunk sent inappropriate messages to four female students during the 2012-13 school year.  Officials say an investigation led to Prunk's teaching certificate being suspended for a year.

Brown To Deliver First State Of The State Address

(Salem, OR)  --  Governor Kate Brown is slated today to deliver her first State of the State address.  Today marks two months since Brown took over as Oregon governor, following the resignation of John Kitzhaber.  Kitzhaber and his fiancee are the subjects of an influence-peddling investigation.  Brown says her speech will include outlining her main priority for the state, which is to ensure economic recovery to give Oregonians the opportunity to make a better life for their families.
 

WA Lawmakers Vote To Ban Powdered Alcohol

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that would ban the sale of powdered alcohol in Washington is awaiting the governor's signature.  The Senate has given the final legislative nod to the bill, after initially voting to legalize powdered alcohol and give it the same restrictions as hard liquor.  A number of safety concerns were raised after the initial vote, from the product's potential appeal to children to suggestions the powdered mix could be misused in dangerous ways.

Aunt Defends Suspect In Double Murder

(Dallas, TX)  --  The aunt of a man accused of killing two people in Portland is coming to his defense.  Gwendolyn Dixon of Dallas, Texas, says she doesn't believe Colby Robinson was a killer because he had a good personality.  Dixon says her nephew was visiting Portland last week for his birthday.  Robinson, who was shot and killed Tuesday by police in a Dallas suburb, is accused of killing 33-year-old Gary Pham and 41-year-old Susie Chang, and critically wounding 35-year-old Andrew Pham, at an apartment in Southeast Portland on April 10th.

No Arrests Yet Following Infant's Death

(Oregon City, OR)  --  Police continue to investigate the death of a seven-month-old baby in Oregon City.  No arrests have been made so far in the death of Izaak Gillen, who was brought from a babysitter's home to a hospital on April 6th with a skull fracture.  Oregon City police say the baby's death is being investigated as a homicide.  Officials say it will likely be several days before details of what happened are released.

Man Facing Charges Of Attempted Murder

(Portland, OR)  --  A man is facing charges of attempted murder in connection with a shooting that followed a birthday celebration.  Michael Damone Kent is accused of shooting his sister-in-law and a man as they sat in a vehicle outside Binks Bar on Northeast Alberta nearly two weeks ago.  Police say Kent became upset and jumped out of the car, then shot Tenniel Scott and Nehemiah Vaughan, who sped away from the scene but were involved in a crash moments later.  Both are expected to recover.

Ex-state Employee Accused Of Stealing Welfare Benefits

(Salem, OR)  --  A former employee with the Oregon Department of Human Services is accused of stealing thousands of dollars in welfare benefits.  Authorities say 29-year-old Danielle Straw took at least 60-thousand dollars from the agency from May 2009 to December 2014.  Straw worked as a human services specialist for DHS.  She's scheduled to make her next court appearance in June.

Gasoline Prices Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  Prices at the gas pump are slightly lower in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-66 a gallon, down a half-cent from yesterday.  It's also nearly three cents a gallon under the average of a week ago.
 

Suspect In Portland Double Murder Shot To Death In Texas

(Portland, OR)  --  Officials say a man who was wanted in a double murder in Portland has been shot and killed by police in Texas.  Authorities say 26-year-old Colby Robinson was shot last night while trying to evade capture in DeSoto, Texas, a Dallas suburb.  Robinson, who was a resident of Dallas, was wanted in connection with a shooting in Southeast Portland that killed 33-year-old Dat Pham and 41-year-old Sut-Leng Chang last Friday.  Thirty-five-year-old Andrew Pham was critically wounded.

Car Crashes Into Portland Game Store

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say the driver of a car that slammed into a Southeast Portland game store had a blood-alcohol content of point-247.  The crash happened on April 2nd at Red Castle Games on Foster and 58th Avenue in Portland.  Myles Jacob Nees is facing charges that include felony eluding a police officer, felony driving while suspended, and misdemeanor driving while under the influence of intoxicants.  Police say Nees drove at speeds of up to 85 miles per hour in a 35-mile-an-hour zone and rear-ended another vehicle after running a red light.

Schill Selected As UO President

(Eugene, OR)  --  The University of Oregon has a new president.  Michael Schill, who will become the school's 18th president, has been serving as dean and Harry N. Wyatt professor of law at the University of Chicago Law School.  Schill was chosen among four finalists, and will take over as president on July 1st.  He'll succeed Michael Gottfredson, who was Oregon's president for two years before resigning last August.
 

Police Investigate Death Of Seven-month-old Baby

(Oregon City, OR)  --  Oregon City police are investigating the death of a seven-month-old baby as a homicide.  Authorities say the infant was injured earlier this month at a babysitter's home in Oregon City.  The child was brought to a hospital with a skull fracture and died on April 7th.  Police say the baby's parents have fully cooperated with the investigation.
 

Tornado Flips Cars In Eugene

(Eugene, OR)  --  The National Weather Service is investigating reports of a small tornado in Eugene.  Witnesses reported the twister touched down in a parking lot at Lane Community College shortly after four p.m. yesterday, lifting and overturning two cars and damaging two others.  No injuries were reported.
 

PPS Budget Calls For All-day Kindergarten, More Teachers

(Portland, OR)  --  The proposed budget for Portland Public Schools aims to restore all-day kindergarten and increase the number of teachers.  Superintendent Carole Smith presented the 579-million-dollar budget last night, saying the goals of the plan include accelerating third-grade reading, reducing exclusionary discipline, and speeding up graduation and completion.  The School Board will hold town-hall meetings on the proposed budget, one at Franklin High School on the evening of April 21st and the other at Roosevelt High School on the 27th.

Portland-area Gas Prices Slightly Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  Drivers in the Portland area are paying slightly less for gasoline.  Triple-A reports the average for regular is down about a half-cent from yesterday, at just under two-67 a gallon.  That's three cents cheaper than a week ago.  The national average for regular is two-39 a gallon.

Fight Between Teen Girls Ends In Stabbing

(Aloha, OR)  --  Sheriff's deputies say a fight between two 15-year-old girls in Aloha ended with one of them being stabbed.  The Washington County Sheriff's Office says the altercation happened around 8:20 last night at Aloha-Huber Park School.  Deputies say the fight was prearranged to "air out some grievances," and it ended when one of the teens was stabbed multiple times.  She's expected to survive, and the accused assailant is being held on charges of second-degree assault.
 

Building Owners May Be Required To Report Energy Use

(Portland, OR)  --  About one-thousand commercial-building owners in Portland could be required to report their energy use to the city.  The City Council is scheduled Wednesday to vote on an ordinance under which those figures would have to be reported every year to the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability.  The city would begin publicizing the reports, and officials say the aim is to encourage reduced energy use to help in the fight against climate change.  The "Portland Tribune" reports the new law would apply to buildings over 50-thousand square feet next year, and over 20-thousand square feet in 2017.

Gasoline Prices Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A reports gas prices are still falling in the Portland area.  The current average for regular is about two-67 a gallon, down three cents a gallon from a week ago.  Regular gas sold in the Portland area for about two-90 a gallon at this point in March.

Police ID SE Portland Shooting Victims

(Portland, OR)  --  Police continue their investigation of a shooting that killed two people and seriously wounded a third at an apartment in Southeast Portland.  The Friday night shooting at the unit near Southeast Division Street and 85th Avenue killed 33-year-old Dat Pham and 41-year-old Sut-Leng Chang.  Thirty-five-year-old Andrew Toan Pham is listed in critical condition, and an infant who was also in the apartment wasn't injured.  Police have made no arrests.
 

Truck Crashes Into Yard, Police Say Driver Drunk

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A man accused of being under the influence while driving is in custody after crashing into the yard of a Hillsboro residence.  Police say 30-year-old Mathew White drove his Toyota pickup through a fence and into the yard on Old Cornelius Pass Road yesterday afternoon.  White was injured, and was arrested on DUII charges while at the hospital.  Police say witnesses saw White traveling at high speeds before the crash.

Oregon Couple Sought In Connection With Check-fraud Spree

(Salem, OR)  --  Authorities are searching for a Dallas, Oregon couple accused in a check-fraud spree.  Marion County sheriff's deputies say Bobbi Ann Finley, also known as Bobbi Ann House, and her husband are accused of writing more than 13-thousand dollars in bad checks across the U.S. since March 11th.  Investigators say Bobbi House is called the "Military Mistress" because she's married 15 U.S. service members, including her current husband, Zackerie House.  Authorities say the couple has been traveling in a stolen 2005 Cadillac Escalade with Oregon license plate 535 BWP.

Dog Rescued After 150-foot Fall

(Scotts Mill, OR)  --  A bull mastiff is recovering from a broken leg after falling 150 feet off a cliff in Marion County.  A group of volunteers from the Oregon Humane Society in Portland rescued the dog, named Ranger, after he fell Tuesday during a hike with his owner near Butte Creek Falls.  Firefighters from the Crooked Finger Station of the Silverton Fire District were on standby yesterday as the group executed the rescue after hiking to the area where the dog landed.
 

Body Found Under Morrison Bridge

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland homicide detectives are working to determine what caused the death of a man who was found under the Morrison Bridge.  The body was found yesterday evening, and the investigation forced closure of one southbound traffic lane of Southwest Naito Parkway.  Police believe the man was homeless.  They say he may have been involved in a fight with another homeless man before he died.

Legislation Could Erase Certain Pot-related Charges

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon lawmakers are considering legislation that could erase criminal charges for certain marijuana-related offenses.  The bills include one that could result in dropped charges for someone who was cited with possession of one ounce of pot or growing four plants in their home.  Measure 91, which goes into effect in July, makes those acts legal.  KATU-TV reports many prosecutors' offices have either dropped pending marijuana cases or stopped pursuing new charges since Measure 91 was approved.

Landslide-mapping Bill Wins Final Passage

(Olympia, WA)  --  A bill that's described as the first major policy change inspired by the deadly Oso, Washington landslide is awaiting the governor's signature.  Under the bill, which won final legislative passage yesterday, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources would be tasked with expanding advanced landform mapping and make the resulting data widely available on the Internet.  The department would collect and publish detailed information on landslide-prone areas in the state.  Officials told the Everett "Herald" that the information would be valuable for property owners in assessing geologic threats.

Gas Prices Down

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline in the Portland area is slightly lower.  Triple-A's latest survey shows a gallon of regular averages about two-69, down a half-cent from yesterday.  It's also three-and-a-half cents below the average of a week ago.
 

Port Of Portland Loses Hapag-Lloyd

(Portland, OR)  --  Another shipping line says it will no longer do business at the Port of Portland.  Officials told "The Oregonian" that Hapag-Lloyd has served notice it will no longer stop at the port.  The shipping firm is the second to end its business with the Port of Portland, as Hanjin Shipping Company made a similar announcement last month.  The firms together made up nearly all of the business at the port's Terminal six.
 

Lawmakers Consider Eliminating I-5 HOV Lane

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon lawmakers will consider a proposal to eliminate the High Occupancy Vehicle lane, or HOV lane, on I-five in Portland.  Under the measure, the state Department of Transportation would not be allowed to restrict the use of any lane of I-five in Portland based on the number of occupants traveling in a vehicle.  The bill is awaiting a hearing in the House Transportation and Economic Development Committee.

Man Accused Of Causing Infant Son's Skull Fracture

(Portland, OR)  --  A Portland man is accused of causing multiple injuries to his three-month-old son, including a skull fracture.  Jason Anzaldi is being held in the Multnomah County Detention center after being arrested on multiple counts of first-degree criminal mistreatment.  Police say the boy was brought to a hospital on March 22nd for treatment of a serious head injury and physicians said he was also found to have suffered broken ribs, an ankle fracture and bites to his foot.  Anzaldi was arraigned yesterday and is due in court again on April 15th.

Funnel Cloud Spotted Over Aumsville

(Aumsville, OR)  --  Meteorologists are reporting a funnel cloud was sighted over Aumsville yesterday afternoon.  Area residents reported the funnel as it appeared shortly after 5:00 p.m.  The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement as a storm system swept through the area.  Forecasters say the funnel dissipated before it had a chance to touch down.

Pipeline Closer To Coming To Portland

(Portland, OR)  --  A proposed pipeline terminal is closer to making its way to Portland, despite protests from hundreds of demonstrators.  The city's Planning and Sustainability Commission has voted to amend a zoning code in order to allow the Pembina Pipeline terminal.  Demonstrators gathered yesterday outside the commission's public hearing to rally against the pipeline.  Pembina, which is based in Canada, is hoping to bring 37-thousand barrels of propane via pipeline through the Port of Portland, have it stored here, then transfer it by ship to Asia.

Oregon Tribes Foreclosing On WA Business

(Arlington, WA)  --  A clean-tech business based in Arlington, Washington is apparently unable to pay its bills.  The Everett "Herald" reports MicroGreen Polymers is being foreclosed on by one of its largest investors, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde in Oregon.  MicroGreen closed its doors Friday, and company officials haven't commented, though a spokesperson for the tribes said it had not been able to meet its financial obligations.  In 2013, the tribes reportedly invested 18-million dollars in the company, which was known for its plastic cups made from recycled materials.

Portland-area Fuel Prices Lower

(Portland, OR)  --  The price of gasoline is still slowly falling in the Portland area.  Triple-A reports regular gas is averaging about two-69 a gallon, down a half-cent from yesterday.  It's also four cents a gallon below the average of a week ago.

Education Fund Heads To Governor's Desk

(Salem, OR)  --  A seven-point-three-billion-dollar package of education legislation is on its way to Governor Kate Brown.  The Oregon State Senate approved the fund yesterday, despite objections from Republicans, who say it's inadequate.  The fund contains 600-million dollars more than the fund for the current fiscal period, which ends June 30th.  The budget's floor manager told the "Portland Tribune" it will boost funding by 100 dollars per student and cushion them from most cutbacks.
 

Partial Building Collapse Injures One

(Tigard, OR)  --  One person is being treated for injuries, following a building collapse in Tigard.  The collapse happened around two o'clock yesterday afternoon at Kayu International on Southwest Greenburg Road.  Officials say a forklift crashed into a structural support post, resulting in a partial collapse of the building and minor injuries to the forklift operator.  The 15-thousand-square-foot building was evacuated as a result of the mishap.

Emails Reveal Hayes Played Influential Role In Administration

(Salem, OR)  --  Emails released by the state show Cylvia Hayes played an influential role in the administration of her fiance, then-Governor John Kitzhaber.  KATU-TV reports a December 2013 email included instructions from Hayes that her detailed policy agenda be "kept confidential."  Hayes wrote that her mission was to "help make the transition to an economy that is environmentally restorative and provides opportunities for people to prosper no matter their birth status."  Kitzhaber, prior to his resignation, told reporters that Hayes was neither his adviser nor a public official.

South Albany H.S. Students Back In Class

(Albany, OR)  --  The principal of South Albany High School says a fire that ripped through a school building last week was "devastating."  Classes resumed yesterday at the school, where someone set fire to the cafeteria building and caused considerable damage.  School officials told KATU-TV that insurance will cover damage to the building, but not its contents, which included personal items such as musical instruments and costumes.  Police have arrested 28-year-old Zachary Burghart, who's accused of setting fire to the building.

Fifteen-year-old Arrested Following Shooting

(Woodburn, OR)  --  A 15-year-old boy is facing multiple charges after being accused of firing shots at a house in Woodburn.  Police say a bullet traveled through a front window around 1:20 Saturday morning and missed a resident of the home who was asleep at the time.  Authorities say the bullet traveled through several walls before exiting through a bedroom.  Police say the teen was arrested Sunday night, at which time a nine-millimeter handgun was found in his waistband.

Gasoline Prices Down

(Portland, OR)  --  Triple-A is reporting lower gas prices in the Portland area.  The average for regular is about two-70 a gallon, a half-cent cheaper than yesterday.  It's also about six cents a gallon below the average of a week ago.

Two Wounded In NE Portland Shooting

(Portland, OR)  --  Police are investigating a shooting that wounded a man and a woman in Northeast Portland.  Authorities say a suspect or suspects fired into a car carrying three people after it drove away from a bar early yesterday morning.  Police say after the car crashed near the intersection of Northeast 28th Avenue and Alberta Street, all three people inside the car, including the two who were wounded, tried to run away.  The person who escaped injury has not been found.  No suspects have been identified.

Police: Murder Suspect Could Be In Portland Area

(Bellevue, WA)  --  Bellevue, Washington police are looking for a man who's wanted in a murder, and investigators say he could be in Portland.  Thirty-year-old Song Wang, who was reportedly spotted in Portland Saturday, is accused of committing the murder last Tuesday night at a Bellevue apartment complex, where a woman's body was found in a sixth-floor unit that had been set on fire.  Authorities say the woman died of traumatic injuries.  Wang, who's considered armed and dangerous, is described as standing five-feet-eight, weighing 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Oregon City Teen Reported Missing Found Safe

(Oregon City, OR)  --  An Oregon City teenager who had been reported missing is now back home with her family.  Officials say 16-year-old Sierra Harper had not been seen since she prepared to go to school Thursday morning.  Police were contacted when the teen failed to return home Thursday afternoon.  Authorities say the girl texted a friend Saturday and reported she was okay, and was found yesterday at a Portland home before she was reunited with her family.

"Cat Cam" Helps Nab Burglary Suspects

(Eugene, OR)  --  Police say a camera that was set up by a house sitter to monitor the owner's pet cats helped lead to the arrests of two burglary suspects in Eugene.  Authorities say the images caught on the video, which was shot last Wednesday and posted on the Internet, led to the identification of a man who was seen entering the home near the University of Oregon campus and leaving with property.  Richard Aaron Dutra is facing charges of first-degree burglary, and his girlfriend, Cynthia Annette Winters, is charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Man Booked Following High-speed Chase By Police

(Portland, OR)  --  Police say a man who's accused of kidnapping his girlfriend and leading officers on a high-speed chase is behind bars.  Authorities say 25-year-old Brandon Jacob Gooding led police into Oregon from Washington at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour late Saturday night.  The chase ended in Portland at the intersection of Southeast 92nd Avenue and Holgate Boulevard, when three patrol cars crashed with Gooding's vehicle.  Two police officers sustained minor injuries, as did Gooding, who was booked yesterday morning into the Multnomah County Jail.

Portland Council To Take Up Ride-share Issue

(Portland, OR)  --  The Portland City Council is slated this week to address a proposal to allow ride-share companies to operate in the city.  Commissioner Steve Novick told the "Portland Tribune" that if the ride-share ordinance passes, Portland Bureau of Transportation director Leah Treat will have the authority to issue four-month permits for ride-share companies to operate pilot programs.  The council is scheduled to take up the proposal Thursday.
 

Vehicle Believed To Be Involved In Deadly Hit-and-run Found

(Albany, OR)  --  Police say the vehicle believed to be involved in a deadly hit-and-run in Albany has been found.  Authorities say 29-year-old Jerrell Ridley Stevens True of Albany was walking along Century Drive near Kizer Avenue either late Friday night or early Saturday morning when he was hit and killed.  Investigators got a possible description of the vehicle Saturday and announced yesterday that it had been located.  No other details have been released.

GoFundMe Collects $94K For Washington Florist

(Richland, WA)  --  A Washington florist who refused to provide flowers for a gay couple's wedding is the focus of an online campaign that's collected more than 94-thousand-dollars in donations.  Barronelle Stutzman, owner of Arlene's Flowers in Richland, was ordered to pay a one-thousand-dollar fine last month after refusing to do floral arrangements for the same-sex wedding.  A judge ruled Stutzman had violated state consumer-protection laws, which prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.  In February, supporters of Stutzman created a GoFundMe page, which has raised more than half of its total amount in the last 36 hours as debate continues over religious-freedom laws and LGBT rights.

House Passes Bill Making Peep photos illegal

(Salem, OR)  --  A bill that would make it illegal to take or circulate unauthorized "upskirt" or "downblouse" photos is moving through the Oregon Legislature.  The measure would close loopholes in the state's privacy laws, under which taking and distributing unauthorized photos or videos of someone's private areas is not against the law in every case.  The bill is now on its way to the Senate.

Tinoco Arraigned On Murder Charge

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  A convicted rapist who's turning 18-years-old today will be transferred from the Oregon Youth Authority to the Washington County Sheriff's Office.  Jaime Tinoco, who pleaded guilty to raping a woman outside Autzen Stadium last September after an Oregon game, is now accused of stabbing Nicole Laube to death outside Timber Creek apartments last August.  Authorities say investigators discovered evidence linking Tinoco to the murder after he admitted to the rape.  He pleaded not guilty to the murder during his arraignment yesterday.

Audit Cites Portland's Property Management

(Portland, OR)  --  A new audit report shows the city of Portland needs to do a better job of managing the property it owns.  City Auditor Mary Hull Caballero says lack of a comprehensive inventory makes Portland unable to "pro actively manage its properties and buildings."  The audit also says the city disposes of properties inconsistently because of inadequate policy.  Mayor Charlie Hales told the "Portland Tribune" he agrees with the audit's recommendation that Portland compile a central property list and develop a consistent policy for identifying and disposing of surplus properties.
 

Suspect Accused Of Setting South Albany H.S. On Fire

(Albany, OR)  --  A suspect is in custody after being accused of setting fire to South Albany High School.  Authorities say 28-year-old Zachary Lee Burghart has been booked on charges of arson and criminal mischief, as well as charges of hit-and-run for crashing into a parked vehicle and damaging the gates outside the school.  The cafeteria building at South Albany High was heavily damaged by the four-alarm fire early Wednesday morning.  Police say Burghart is a Navy veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Teen Rapist Indicted On Murder Charge

(Portland, OR)  --  A 17-year-old who was convicted of raping a woman near Autzen Stadium last September is under indictment for the murder of a woman at a Cedar Mill apartment complex.  The indictment was handed up last night against Jaime Tinoco, containing charges of aggravated murder and unlawful use of a weapon in connection the death of Nicole Laube, who was fatally stabbed last August.  Officials say Tinoco was on probation when each crime was committed.  KGW-TV reports Tinoco is being held at the Long juvenile facility until he turns 18 tomorrow, at which time he'll be moved to the Washington County Jail.

Man Dies After Clothes Catch Fire

(Portland, OR)  --  Authorities say a Portland man died after his clothes caught fire as he was warming himself.  Police say the 45-year-old man was getting warm by an open fire early yesterday morning in the area of North Ivanhoe and North Charleston streets, when his clothes ignited and he suffered severe burns.  He was rushed to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, where he later died.  His name hasn't been released.

Gresham Police Reopen Investigation Of 1994 Murder

(Gresham, OR)  --  Gresham police are again investigating a murder that took place more than 20 years ago.  Officers found the body of 39-year-old Conan Lee Walery at his home on Northeast Marine Drive in December 1994.  The police department says the case has been re-opened because of "new and credible information" that's come to light.  No details have been released.

South Albany High School Damaged By Fire

(Albany, OR)  --  Damage is estimated at more than one-million-dollars, following a four-alarm fire that ripped through a building at South Albany High School.  Investigators are trying to determine what caused the blaze, which occupied as many as 15 different fire agencies and 70 firefighters.  Officials say the fire broke out early yesterday morning in the cafeteria building and part of the roof collapsed around 5:30 a.m.  No injuries have been reported.

Gas Prices Still Falling

(Portland, OR)  --  Portland-area fuel prices are still dropping.  Triple-A's latest survey shows the average for regular is about two-72 a gallon, a penny lower than yesterday.  It's also six-cents a gallon below the average at this time last week.

Former Portland Residents To Pay Art Tax

(Portland, OR)  --  The City of Portland is hitting up former residents who are considered art-tax scofflaws.  City officials told KATU-TV that tens of thousands of taxpayers who didn't file returns during the past three years will be receiving notices, if they haven't already, assessing what they owe for the art tax.  That includes former Portland residents, some from as far away as Alaska.  The city has a law requiring every Portlander 18 or older, who has any sort of income, to pay the 35-dollar art tax each year.

Washington County Sex Offender At Large

(Hillsboro, OR)  --  Washington County authorities are looking for a convicted sex offender who's failed to report to his parole officer.  Officials say 26-year-old Robert Edward Foster was recently convicted after he was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a bathroom on the Portland State University campus.  Deputies say Foster served 90 days in jail, but his current location is unknown.  He's described as white, standing six feet tall, weighing 170 pounds, with brown hair and eyes.

AMBER Alert For Seattle Toddler Cancelled

(Seattle, WA)  --  An AMBER Alert for a 23-month-old boy from Seattle is now cancelled.  Police say Aaron Lopez was illegally taken by his father after the man robbed the child's mother.  Authorities say 24-year-old Daniel Lopez-Andino drove away yesterday evening with his son in a silver BMW.  Police say the toddler was found safe early this morning and his father has been arrested.

PPB Announces Bike Theft Task Force

(Portland, OR)  --  A new bike-theft task force is now part of the Portland Police Bureau.  Officials say the purpose is to reduce the growing number of bicycle thefts in Portland.  Residents will be able to go online and report stolen bikes, contribute tips or register bicycles in the event they're stolen.  The web page can be found on the Police Bureau section of the City of Portland's website.

Officials Warn About IRS Scam

(Salem, OR)  --  Oregon state officials are warning residents about an IRS-related scam.  The state Department of Justice says intended victims receive phone calls from someone claiming to be with the IRS, threatening property seizure unless the target sends money owed to the tax agency.  The Justice Department told KOIN-TV that victims of the scam in Oregon have lost more than 77-thousand-dollars.  Officials say if you have tax issues, the IRS will contact you exclusively by mail and will not ask you to wire money or send it via pre-paid debit card.

Creator Of "Pet Rock" Dead At 78

(Jacksonville, OR)  --  The man credited with inventing the "pet rock" is dead at age 78.  Gary Dahl, who grew up in Spokane, died on March 23rd in Jacksonville, Oregon, following a series of health problems.  Dahl's daughter says he made the pet rocks for a dollar apiece and sold them for four dollars each during their heyday in the mid-1970s.  Dahl once said the idea came to him after hearing people complain about their pets and he began marketing a "pet" that needed no care.

Gas Prices Down

(Portland, OR)  --  Gasoline prices continue to fall in the Portland area.  The latest Triple-A survey shows the average for regular is two-73 a gallon, down two-cents from yesterday.  It's also six-cents a gallon below the average of a week ago.
 

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