Police Seek Oregon City Gaming Store Burglar

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- Police in Oregon City are seeking the public's help in their search for a gaming store thief. The Oregon City Police Department says the suspect broke into Geeks and Games on Beavercreek Road early Saturday morning and stole over one-thousand dollars' worth of merchandise. The stolen items included Pokémon Destined Rivals cards which weren't scheduled to be released to the public until Sunday. Police have released a surveillance image of the suspect.

Report Accuses Oregon Tourism Commission Of Lack Of Oversight

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A new report says there's a lack of oversight at the Oregon Tourism Commission. The report released yesterday by James Neff of the Oregon Journalism Project says the agency lacks oversight on compensation for upper-level executives and how it handles state money. The report also includes interviews with former employees who say leadership at the agency engaged in "management by intimidation."

Motorcyclist Crashes Into Parked Car, Dies

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A motorcyclist is dead after crashing into a parked vehicle in Portland's Rose City Park neighborhood. The Portland Police Bureau says the crash happened around 6:30 last night near Northeast 5th Avenue and Northeast Tillamook Street. The man was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Four Big Cats Seized From Bandon Park Have New Homes

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Four big cats rescued from the West Coast Game Park Safari near Bandon are making a new home at Wildcat Ridge Sanctuary. KATU-TV reports the sanctuary is taking in two Eurasian lynxes and two servals. The cats were among more than 300 animals seized from the West Coast Game Park Safari last week. Many of the animals were malnourished, and some had to be euthanized due to poor health. Police have arrested the park's owner, Brian Tenney on drug manufacturing and distribution charges.

County Stops Distributing Tents, Tarps To Homeless

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Multnomah County is no longer handing out tents and tarps to residents who are experiencing homelessness. The county ended its tarp and tent distribution program yesterday. A new rule bans the county from directly distributing tarps and tents to people without shelter except in the case of severe weather and cold weather advisory events. The county says it can save 941-thousand dollars by not handing out the supplies.

School Gun Arrests

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- Two teenagers were arrested Tuesday after trying to hide a stolen gun in Roosevelt Elementary School in Vancouver. Police responded to a shooting in the parking lot of the Jim Parsley Center. No one was hurt. The car that fired the shots fled. A teenager who was in the parking lot took a handgun wrapped in a sweatshirt into the school and gave it to another juvenile who tried to hide it. Police found the gun and arrested two boys, ages 15 and 17. They were booked into juvenile detention.

Starlight Parade Grand Marshal Dillon T. Pickle

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The mascot for the Portland Pickles baseball team has been named the Grand Marshal of the Starlight Parade. Rose Festival officials say Dillon has become a staple of summer festivities in the Rose City, impacting Portland's cultural landscape. The CareOregon Starlight Parade is this Saturday evening, in downtown Portland. The Grand Floral Parade is June 7th with the baby elephant Tula Tu as Grand Marshal.

Former Corrections Officer Sentenced

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- A former corrections officer at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for sexually assaulting a female inmate. In 2023, Levi Gray was the supervisor of the Special Housing Unit. Video showed him taking the 19-year-old victim to a cell that didn't have surveillance video where the assault happened. His DNA was found on the victim. The defense argued for probation, but the judge agreed prison was appropriate.

Gas Prices Increase Over Memorial Day Weekend

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Gas prices increased in Oregon and Washington over Memorial Day weekend. Triple-A reports Oregon's average increased a nickel to 4-02 a gallon. That's about 30 cents a gallon lower than this time last year. Washington state's average increased six cents to 4-41. The national average was unchanged at 3-17 a gallon.

FEMA Asked To Help Following Harney County Flooding

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Burns, OR) -- Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with Governor Tina Kotek, are asking FEMA to help residents of Harney County following the worst flooding in over 70 years. The City of Burns' sewer system was flooded which sent raw sewage into homes. More than 14-hundred people were evacuated. Many of the homes need to be cleaned from raw sewage. FEMA is being asked to provide Individual Assistance. That would help uninsured residents cover costs for basic needs and repairs.

Burn Pile Fire Destroys Shed

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Forest Grove, OR) -- Embers from a burn pile destroyed a large shed near Forest Grove. When firefighters arrived at the Gales Creek property the shed was destroyed and collapsing on itself. No one was injured. Firefighters say the property owner had a burn pile 20-feet from the shed when the wind shifted and blew embers onto the shed starting the fire. They say it's important to take precautions with burn piles to keep them contained.

78 Choose Deflection During Five Day Police Drug Mission

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police arrested 60 people and another 78 people chose to enter deflection during a five-day mission that focused on illegal drugs. The missions were conducted in downtown, Old Town, Northwest, the Central Inner Eastside, and Goose Hollow. The final day of the mission, Oregon State Police joined helping to make the most contacts during the effort. Police also seized illegal drugs and stolen merchandise.

Oregon National Guard Member Sets Push-Up Record

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(West Salem, OR) -- A member of the Oregon Army National Guard has set a world record for hand-release push-ups. Physician assistant Major Tommy Vu did 14-hundred-22 repetitions in one hour. He needed to do more than 12-hundred-50 to qualify for the record. He donated a dollar for every repetition to charity in honor of a friend who is battling brain cancer.

Fatal Crossover Crash

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Timber, OR) -- A passenger is dead following a wrong-way crash Saturday on Highway 26 near milepost 31. Oregon State Police say a car driven by 64-year-old Fred Camino, of Seattle, crossed the center line and hit a Nissan Sentra. A passenger in the Sentra, 59-year-old Michelle Moussan, of Vancouver was killed. Five people suffered serious injuries and were hospitalized. Police don't know why Camino crossed the center line.

Pedestrian Killed In Crash

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(McMinnville, OR) -- A pedestrian was hit by a truck and killed Saturday in McMinnville. Police say 46-year-old Audra Ackerman was walking with her dog on Cypress Lane when they were hit and killed. The driver, 68-year-old Jose Huerta, was in a pickup pulling a landscape trailer. He remained on scene and cooperated with the investigation. Police say speed and intoxication were not factors in the crash and it was a tragic accident.

Oldest Harbor Seal To Celebrate 50th Birthday

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Newport, OR) -- Skinny, the world's oldest harbor seal, is turning 50. In nature, harbor seals can live into their 20s, while those in human care can live into their 30s, or as in Skinny's case, well beyond. Skinny was found stranded in 1975 on a Washington state beach, orphaned, dehydrated and starving. She was cared for at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium and then in 1992 moved to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. A public celebration is planned for June 3rd.

Hundreds Of Crypto Investors Show Up For Trump Meme Coin Dinner

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Sterling, VA) -- Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon is one of around 100 protesters who showed up for President Trump's gala dinner promoting his new meme coin. Merkley and other protesters gathered outside the entrance to Trump's golf course near Washington, DC last night holding signs accusing the President of corruption. Merkley called the event "the crypto corruption club." Over 200 crypto investors attended the event and had to buy the President's $TRUMP cryptocurrency in order to gain entrance. Investors at the dinner reportedly spent about 148 million dollars on the Trump crypto.

Police Arrest Third Teen In Deadly Gresham Drive-By

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- Police say they've arrested a third teenager in connection with a drive-by shooting in Gresham that left one person dead. The Gresham Police Department says officers tracked down and arrested the third 16-year-old boy Tuesday afternoon. He and two other teens are accused of taking part in a drive-by shooting on a home in Gresham on May 13th. No residents were hurt, but a fourth person inside the car suffered a gunshot wound during the drive-by. The teens took Jeffery Daniel to a local hospital, but he died from his injuries. Police arrested two of the teens at the hospital, but the third remained at large until this week.

Spotted Lanternfly Concern

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Agriculture is concerned about a report someone saw a spotted lanternfly at Colonel Summers Park in Portland. The spotted lanternfly isn't native to Oregon and can cause damage to plants, especially grapes and nursery products. After the reported sighting, a search of the park turned up no sign of the insect. Visual surveys and trapping will continue.

Police Seek Missing Elderly Woman

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- Police are seeking the public's help in their search for an elderly woman. The Clark County Sheriff's Office says 84-year-old Millie went missing from the Hockinson area around 2 yesterday afternoon. She's described as five feet tall and 100 pounds with hazel eyes and gray hair.

Woman Arrested For Shooting Near Gresham

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- A woman is behind bars in connection to a shooting in Northeast Gresham. Police say the woman shot a man during some sort of disturbance near Northeast 181st and Pacific Court around 4:30 yesterday afternoon. The man was treated by police for non-life-threatening injuries.

Portland Commits $1M Toward James Beard Public Market

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The James Beard Public Market is getting a major funding commitment. Portland City Council members voted this week to commit one million dollars toward making the market a reality. The James Beard Public Market will be a Pike Place-style market with 40 permanent vendors selling locally sourced items including produce, cheeses and spices. The first phase of the project is expected to get underway in summer of next year.

Portland City Council Approves Utility Rate Hike

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland utility bills are set to go up this summer. City Council voted yesterday to approve a plan to raise combined water and sewer bills by over six percent. It's the highest increase in more than ten years in Portland. The rate hike will take effect in July.

Boaters Must Stop At Inspection Stations

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is reminding boaters they must stop at inspection stations that check for invasive species. They're trying to keep quagga mussels, zebra mussels and golden mussels out of Oregon's rivers and lakes. They grow out of control and can damage irrigation systems and dams. ODF-and-W will also having roving crews conducting inspections at boat ramps.

Man Arrested On 20 Counts Of Child Sex Abuse

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Newport, OR) -- A Lincoln County man is facing nearly two dozen charges related to child sexual abuse. Police arrested 36-year-old Kurtis Fegulia at his Newport home Tuesday on 20 counts of encouraging child sex abuse. Detectives say Fegulia downloaded or shared over 800 files containing child sex abuse materials. Some of the victims were younger than a year old.

PPB Drug Enforcement Mission

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police are conducting a week-long drug enforcement mission. During the first two days, more than 20 people were arrested, and officers seized drugs and cash along with stolen merchandise. More than two dozen people entered the deflection program.

Bottle Bill Change Passes Legislature

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon stores won't have to accept bottle and can returns after 8 p.m. under a bill passed by the Legislature. Retailers say late-night returns often put employees at risk. Neighbors of the stores say it brought drug users into the areas. Stores where alternative drop sites are located could stop accepting returns at 6 p.m. The bill passed the Legislature with wide margins. It now goes to the Governor.

Portland Tram Closes For Maintenance

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland tram will close for maintenance during the holiday weekend. The tram, which runs from South Waterfront to OHSU, will stop running at 7 p.m. Friday and resume operations at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday. The wheels that move the cable will be replaced and the tram carriages will be rebuilt. Shuttle buses will run in place of the tram.

Man Injured In Waterfall Jump

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Authorities say a man who jumped from Abiqua Falls in Marion County was seriously injured. The falls are 90 feet high, and the 22-year-old Utah man had to be driven out by rescuers on an ATV and then flown to a trauma hospital. The Marion County Sheriff's Office says it's an important reminder to use caution in wilderness areas and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

ODOT Urges Safety During 100 Deadliest Days

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Transportation is urging drivers to use caution during the 100 Deadliest Days. In the weeks prior to Memorial Day weekend, there have been several crashes injuring construction workers. ODOT and Oregon State Police want drivers to focus on the road by putting down distractions, drive sober, don't speed and wear seatbelts.

Oregon Republicans Propose ODOT Cuts

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Republicans in the Oregon House and Senate are proposing major cuts to the Oregon Department of Transportation. They would cut 146 million dollars from climate initiatives, cap the Clean Fuels Program, cut 38 million dollars from passenger rail and create a new office to manage large projects. They say the cuts would allow ODOT to maintain basic services without raising taxes. The plan would need bipartisan support from Democrats to move forward.

Police ID Motorcyclist Killed In SE Portland Crash

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are releasing the identity of a motorcyclist killed in a crash in Southeast Portland. The Portland Police Bureau says 55-year-old David Dahlen crashed into a van near Southeast 80th Avenue and Powell Boulevard around 2 p.m. last week Tuesday. Dahlen was taken to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward. Dahlen's death marks Portland's ninth traffic-related fatality so far this year.

Ducklings Reunited With Mother After Falling Into Manhole In Astoria

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Astoria, OR) -- Some ducklings are reunited with their mother after being rescued from a manhole in Astoria. The Astoria Fire Department says a tour bus driver called them last week to report seeing a group of ducklings fall into a sewer drain. Fire crews responded and rescued all seven ducklings from the drain. Crews searched for the mother but could not find her. The tour bus driver later called the fire department back after spotting the mother duck, and crews rushed in to reunite her with her ducklings. The fire department posted a photo on Facebook showing the mother and her ducklings swimming off together.

PGE Photo Contest Challenges Residents To Recreate Vintage Photos

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland General Electric is launching a unique photo contest in honor of the utility's 75-year history with Oregon parks. PGE's "Parks and Re-Creation Photo Contest" challenges residents to recreate vintage photos taken at PGE parks during the 1950s. The best photo will be rewarded with a complimentary two-night stay at one of PGE's parks or campgrounds. The contest opens on Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day.

PPS Approves Superintendent's Budget Proposal

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Public Schools is signing off on its superintendent's two-billion-dollar budget proposal. The school board voted unanimously Monday night to approve the budget for the 2025-2026 school year. The budget includes 43-million dollars in cuts. The board will meet again next month for a final vote on whether to adopt the budget.

Portland Man Sentenced In Child Sex Abuse Sting

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland man has been sentenced to federal prison for trying to meet children for sex. Federal prosecutors say 64-year-old Marc McCool responded to an ad on social media posted by an undercover agent. He believed he was going to Seattle to meet seven- and eleven-year-old children for sex. He traveled by train and took an Uber to the meeting location where he was arrested. McCool was sentenced to four years in federal prison.

Burglary Ring Suspect Arrested

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Another member of a burglary ring that hit more than 100 Portland area businesses has been arrested. Selena Jacobo was arrested on a secret indictment warrant and charged in the case. The ringleader, Joshua Lucero, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nine years in prison. Jacobo is being held on 50-thousand-dollars bond.

Mill Casino Renamed Ko-Kwel Casino

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(North Bend, OR) -- The Mill Casino in North Bend is getting a new name. The casino officially changed its name on Monday to the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort Coos Bay. The new name honors the Coquille Tribe, which owns the 30-year-old casino. Tribal members learned about the new name Sunday night, and casino employees found out on Monday.

Hit And Run Suspect Arrested

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Woodburn, OR) -- Woodburn Police have arrested a suspect in a fatal hit and run that happened December 26th. Police say 44-year-old Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza was in a crosswalk on Pacific Highway at Williams Avenue when he was hit. He died at Salem Memorial Hospital. Police arrested 58-year-old Kenneth Kolarsky.

Shooting Investigation Into Boy's Death

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Clackamas County, OR) -- The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shooting that killed a 12-year-old boy. Deputies responded to a report that a 12-year-old boy had shot himself last Tuesday. The boy was found in the back yard of a home with a life-threatening injury. The boy died at a hospital on Saturday. The Multnomah County Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. The boy was a student at Hosford Middle School. A Go Fund Me account has been set up to help the family.

Gas Prices Rise Ahead Of Memorial Day Weekend

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Gas prices are up heading into Memorial Day weekend. Triple-A reports the national average increased four cents to three-18 a gallon. Oregon's average increased four cents to three-96. Rising demand and higher crude oil prices are causing the price of gas to rise.

Police Arrest Two Suspects In 2021 Murder Of Teen In Gresham

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Gresham, OR) -- Police say they've made two arrests in connection with the murder of a teenage boy in Gresham four years ago. The Gresham Police Department says officers arrested Ty Sage and Kevin Ramirez last week on charges of murder. They're accused of shooting and killing 15-year-old Lowgunn Ivey at the Columbia Trails Apartments in Gresham in 2021. Detectives say it took them over three years to put the case together.

Competency Hearing Set Today For Former WWE Star Charged With Murder

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Another competency hearing is scheduled today in the case of a former professional wrestler accused of killing his wife in their Portland home. A judge found 71-year-old William Haynes, better known by his ring name Billy Jack Haynes, unfit to stand trial last Wednesday. The judge ordered Haynes be sent to the Oregon State Hospital for treatment. The former WWE star is accused of shooting his 85-year-old wife Janette Becraft last year and then barricading himself inside their home for two hours before surrendering to police. Haynes wrestled for the WWE from 1986 to 1988 and was known for his feuds with Randy Macho Man Savage and Hercules Hernandez.

Changes To Bottle Recycling Law Considered

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- A bill in the Oregon Legislature would limit the hours stores would be required to accept bottle returns. Convenience stores that are open around-the-clock are required to take bottles at any time, and at night people are often belligerent or intimidating. The bill would allow stores to stop accepting bottle returns after 8 p.m. If stores set up alternative drop sites, bottle returns could be refused after 6 p.m.

TriMet Drug Use Declines, Ridership Increases

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Smoking on TriMet buses and trains is down significantly and ridership is up. In most cases, the smoking involved illegal drugs. Smoking on trains declined from 193 reports in February 2023, to just six reports this year. Reports of smoking on buses peaked at 52 in May 2023 and is now around 10 reports a month. TriMet has increased personnel in security and safety by 300 percent to a staff of nearly 500 which has a greater presence throughout the system. Ridership numbers are up this year but remain significantly below the peak in 2012.

Fatal UTV Crash

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- An 18-year-old man faces manslaughter charges after a fatal crash on Sauvie Island. The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office says 18-year-old Ayden Heard was driving a side-by-side utility vehicle on private property just after midnight Sunday when it crashed and rolled over. A juvenile female passenger died at the scene. Heard was treated at a hospital and then booked for manslaughter, driving under the influence and reckless driving.

Human Trafficking Missions Continue On 82nd Avenue

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland Police Bureau's Human Trafficking Unit continues to focus on Northeast 82nd Avenue and Sandy Boulevard. Police say they've arrested 30 people for soliciting prostitution over the last three months. Investigators towed six vehicles and obtained information about suspected trafficking operations. A total of 26 providers were contacted. People who are younger than 25 are directed toward Safety Compass, a non-profit that offers advocacy services to people involved in human trafficking.

Hit And Run Suspect Sought

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Woodburn, OR) -- Woodburn Police are trying to identify a suspect in a fatal hit and run that happened Thursday evening. Police say a light-colored SUV hit a man in a crosswalk at Pacific Highway and Williams Avenue. Forty-four-year-old Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza died at Salem Memorial Hospital. The suspect's vehicle fled westbound onto Williams Avenue and then south on Carol Street. Woodburn Police are asking anyone with information about the SUV to contact them.

Historic Highway 30 Reopens

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Multnomah Falls, OR) -- The Historic Columbia River Highway has reopened near Multnomah Falls. It was closed for repairs to the viaduct west of the falls. It reopened a week early. During the summer, there will be single lane closures with flaggers to complete work on the project. The highway will close again this fall for similar work on the viaduct east of the falls.

Payroll Specialists Charged With Embezzlement

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Eugene, OR) -- A nonprofit housing agency's Payroll specialist is accused of stealing more than half a million dollars. Eugene Police say 59-year-old Miranda Wilcox siphoned the money from "Homes for Good" during her time with the agency. She was arrested on 114 counts of computer crime, six counts of theft and 16 counts of identity theft, among other charges. Homes for Good is Lan County's public housing authority.

One Injured In Townhouse Fire

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- One person was injured in a townhouse fire Saturday night in Vancouver. Firefighters arrived within three minutes and found smoke coming from a two-story townhouse. The fire was knocked down within seven minutes. One person was transported to Peace Health Southwest Medical Center. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

Inmates Complete Wildfire Training

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Forest Grove, OR) -- More than 60 Oregon Department of Corrections adults in custody have been trained to fight wildfires this summer. They learned how to dig handlines, lay hoseline and run a water pump, how to use firefighting tools and procedures to mop up after a fire. They'll join another 60 inmates who were already trained. They work out of the South Fork Forest Camp which has been in operation for 74 years.

Inmates Complete Wildfire Training

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Forest Grove, OR) -- More than 60 Oregon Department of Corrections adults in custody have been trained to fight wildfires this summer. They learned how to dig handlines, lay hoseline and run a water pump, how to use firefighting tools and procedures to mop up after a fire. They'll join another 60 inmates who were already trained. They work out of the South Fork Forest Camp which has been in operation for 74 years.

Suspect Arrested After Man Shot In Face

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Bethany, OR) -- One person is behind bars after allegedly shooting a man in the face in North Bethany. The Washington County Sheriff's Office says the shooting happened Wednesday night near Northwest Abigail Terrace and Antonio Street. The victim remains hospitalized. Police say the suspect surrendered to them at the scene of the shooting without incident. An investigation is ongoing.

Former WWE Star Found Unfit To Stand Trial In Wife's Murder

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A former professional wrestler accused of killing his wife in their Portland home is being found unfit to stand trial. A Multnomah County judge on Wednesday ordered 71-year-old William Haynes, better known by his ring name Billy Jack Haynes, be sent to the Oregon State Hospital for treatment. The former WWE star is accused of shooting his 85-year-old wife Janette Becraft last year and then barricading himself inside their home for two hours before surrendering to police. Haynes wrestled for the WWE from 1986 to 1988 and was known for his feuds with Randy Macho Man Savage and Hercules Hernandez. Another hearing on his fitness to stand trial is set for next Tuesday.

Molalla Councilor Indicted For Theft

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A Molalla city councilor has been indicted for theft from a middle school parents' group. The Clackamas County District Attorney says Rae Lynn Botsford was treasurer of the Molalla River Middle School Parent Action Committee. She had a credit card from the organization she allegedly used to make 180 unauthorized transactions, including cash withdrawals from ATMs. Botsford faces a 24 count indictment on theft, identity theft and falsifying business records. Botsford has been on the City Council since 2023.

Portland Timbers Advance Recycling

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland Timbers and Bold Reuse are expanding recycling opportunities at Providence Park. A reusable foodware recycling system is being used in premium seating. A reusable vessel, designed by Dart Container Corporation, is being used throughout the stadium. The reusable foodware is embedded with RFID technology to do real-time inventory tracking and help determine when the foodware has reached the end of its use. A test last year diverted over 40 thousand single-use cups from the garbage and eliminated two thousand pounds of waste.

Investment Fraud Guilty Plea

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The owner of a Portland area real estate investment company has pleaded guilty for his role in an 18-million-dollar fraud scheme. Robert Christensen's business partner Anthony Matic previously pleaded guilty. Prosecutors say they told investors their money would be used to buy and renovate undervalued homes and then rented to generate income. When the plan failed, they started defrauding commercial lenders. They will both be sentenced in October.

Drug Trafficking Arrest

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Sutherlin, OR) -- A Salem man was arrested for allegedly moving illegal drugs from Salem into Douglas County. Deputies pulled over the man they knew as Enrique Gonzalez-Hernandez on I-5 near Sutherlin. A K-9 helped locate nine pounds of meth in his car. Deputies identified Gonzalez-Hernandez through his driver's license, but after he was finger-printed at the jail, detectives learned the suspect was actually Javier Peres-Alvarado. Both identities have previous criminal histories.

Portland's Sunday Parkways Start May 18

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The first Sunday Parkways event this year will be in Southwest Portland on May 18th. People can walk, run or ride a two-mile route, or take a three-and-a-half mile walk through Gabriel Park, Spring Garden Park, and Multnomah Village. There's entertainment and food along the way. It runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

UP Plans Pope Leo XIV Mass

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The University of Portland will hold a Mass for Pope Leo the fourteenth. It's scheduled for 10:30 this Sunday morning at the University's Chapel of Christ the Teacher. The university is an independently governed Catholic university guided by the Congregation of Holy Cross.

Settlement Announced For Family Of Jenoah Donald

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- Family members of an unarmed Black man who was shot and killed by police during a traffic stop in Clark County four years ago are getting a multi-million-dollar settlement. Clark County is agreeing to pay three-point-five-million dollars to the family of 30-year-old Jenoah D. Donald for his death in 2021. Donald was unarmed when Clark County Deputy Sean Boyle shot him after pulling him over for a broken tail light. Boyle was reportedly attempting to pull Donald out of his vehicle when the car started moving forward, prompting Boyle to open fire on him. He died from his injuries a week later. Donald's case was the first to be reviewed under Washington's new investigative model aimed at creating independence in the review process for police use of force.

Vancouver Allocates Over $11M For Affordable Housing

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- The city of Vancouver is setting aside millions of dollars for affordable housing. City Council members voted yesterday to allocate eleven-point-15-million dollars for affordable housing projects. The money will go toward creating or preserving 330 affordable rental homes in the city.

Oregon Gets Federal Money To Improve Airports

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is getting nearly 23-million-dollars from the federal government to make improvements to seven airports. Portland International Airport will use the money to repair an aging taxiway. Hillsboro Airport will build a new taxiway to reduce delays. Bend Airport will repave taxi lanes. Corvallis Airport will build a taxiway to access new hangars. Burns Airport will buy new snow removal equipment. And the Joseph Airport will reseal its runway.

Multnomah County Ends Free Tents

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Multnomah County has stopped handing out free tents. The program was criticized for not helping to solve the homeless problem. The county will distribute tents during severe cold weather events. The county will also continue to give out hygiene kits, basic first aid supplies, water, clothing, sleeping bags and blankets.

Construction Crisis Line

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon now has a special hotline for construction workers. They are six times more likely to die from suicide than an on-the-job accident. Eight Oregon-based construction companies have worked with Lines for Life to create a Construction Care Line. It shares operators with the 988 crisis line. It's available around-the-clock at 503-433-7878.

Oregon To Clear Homeless Camps From Sandy River Delta

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Troutdale, OR) -- Homeless camps in the Sandy River Delta, near Troutdale, will be cleared out. The area is also known as Thousand Acres. The Oregon Department of State Lands has started clearing camps, so it can start restoration work. Residents are being given until June 2nd to leave. Outreach teams are helping to connect the people to services.

Nike's Knight Not Interested In Buying Blazers

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Nike founder Phil Knight says he is not interested in buying the Trail Blazers. The estate of former owner Paul Allen announced yesterday that the franchise is for sale. Knight attempted to buy the team in 2022 with an offer reportedly north of $2 billion.

Oregon Zoo Reports Death Of Red Panda Moshu

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Oregon Zoo is mourning the loss its red panda Moshu. Zoo officials confirmed yesterday that Moshu has died at nearly 14-years-old. Officials say that's a very long life for a red panda. Moshu was diagnosed with severe heart disease about a year ago. Moshu was a fan favorite at the zoo and was known for his love of snacks, which earned him the nickname Sir Snacks a Lot.

Police ID Man Killed In Old Town Shooting

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are releasing the identity of a man who was shot and killed in Portland's Old Town neighborhood over the weekend. The Portland Police Bureau says 49-year-old Froilan Ortiz was killed in the shooting Sunday along Naito Parkway at the Steel Bridge. Police are still searching for a suspect.

Motorcyclist Killed In Crash In SE Portland

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A motorcyclist is dead following a crash in Southeast Portland. The Portland Police Bureau says the crash happened at Southeast 80th Avenue and Powell Boulevard yesterday afternoon when the motorcyclist collided with a van. He died at the scene. Police say the driver of the van remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

Police Find Woman Reported Abducted; Say No Crime Committed

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Police are resolving a previously reported possible kidnapping after finding the woman safe. The Portland Police Bureau says investigators identified and contacted the woman yesterday afternoon and determined no crime had been committed. Police had asked the public for help locating a white van earlier yesterday after a witness reported seeing the driver pull up next to a woman who was walking, get out and force the woman inside before driving away.

TripCheck Turns 25

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- ODOT's website TripCheck is 25 years old this year. It started as a map with links to a few freeway cameras and turned into a transportation resource that gets around 20-thousand users a day. There are links to more than a thousand cameras, information on crashes and roadway speeds in real-time. It shows construction across the state. In the future, it'll add information from connected vehicles as that technology improves.

Motorcycle Ramming Suspect Charged With Attempted Murder

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- The driver accused of intentionally sideswiping a motorcycle in Beaverton is now charged with attempted murder. A Washington County grand jury also indicted Samir Pazzoto-Filhoon of assault, reckless driving, and felony hit-and-run charges. Dashcam video showed the motorcyclist gesturing at the driver before the vehicle swerves into the motorcyclist causing him to crash. Police received a tip that helped identify Pazzoto-Filhoon. The motorcycle rider has been released from a hospital.

Pregnancy Syphilis Cases Rise

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon health officials are warning about a jump in syphilis cases involving pregnant women. In 2014, Oregon had two cases of congenital syphilis. Last year, that number surged to 45. The number of pregnant women with the disease has increased. It can lead to miscarriage, growth abnormalities, premature birth and fetal death. The Oregon Health Authority recommends pregnant women be tested three times during their pregnancy.

Refinery Fire Causes Gas Price Increase

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Gas prices are up on the West Coast, because of a refinery fire in the San Francisco area. The Valero refinery processes 145 thousand barrels of oil a day. The Triple-A reports the average price for a gallon of gas in Oregon increased three cents over the last week to 3-93. California's average increased 14 cents to 4-91. Washington state's average is up four cents to 4-30 a gallon.

Federal Budget Cuts To Impact Oregon Programs

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid will impact Oregon programs. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek says the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is one of the most effective anti-poverty programs in America. It helps more than 700 thousand Oregonians. Cuts to Medicaid will reduce the number of people covered by the Oregon Health Plan. Republicans say cuts to SNAP, Medicaid and other programs would increase efficiencies in the federal government.

OHSU Appeals Drunk Voles Court Order

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon Health and Science University has appealed a court order requiring it to pay PETA 400-thousand-dollars. In 2023, a Multnomah County Circuit Court judge found O-H-S-U violated Oregon public records law by trying to withhold videos from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. The video was from an experiment where voles were given large amounts of alcohol to determine the impact on infidelity. O-H-S-U previously said it wasn't a violation of the public records law.

Man Arrested For Salem Shooting Following Nap During Attempted Burglary

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Seattle, WA) -- A man is facing charges in connection to a shooting in Salem after allegedly getting caught snoozing in a home he was trying to burglarize. The Salem Police Department says officers arrested Jimmy Santos on Sunday after a homeowner called 911 to report finding the man sleeping in his house. Santos was wanted in connection to a shooting earlier that day that sent one person to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police say officers arrested Santos without incident.

Mayors Call For Transportation Bill

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Wood Village, OR) -- Mayors of Gresham, Wood Village, Troutdale, and Fairview are calling on Oregon legislators to pass a transportation bill this session. They say local governments urgently need funding to maintain roads and improve road safety. They say the work would also boost the economy by creating jobs. Legislative leaders have discussed a transportation bill, but it has not yet been submitted.

Beaverton Faces Cuts Due To Budget Gap

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Beaverton, OR) -- Beaverton City Council needs to find nearly 11 million dollars in budget cuts. Mayor Lacey Beaty says the city's expenses are growing faster than the three percent increase in revenue. Police will scale back their bike team and eliminate an officer from the mental health resource team. Other departments will cut vacant positions and nearly three million dollars in street repairs will be eliminated. The budget will be adopted next month.

Seattle Man Arrested In Eugene For Luring A Child

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Eugene, OR) -- Eugene Police say they've arrested a Seattle man who's accused of trying to lure a child he met online. Police say 27-year-old Caleb Ogden was actually talking with a detective from Eugene's Violent Crimes Unit. Investigators say they found a large amount of sex toys with him when he was arrested. Ogden is accused of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption.

Inmates Trained To Fight Wildfires

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Corrections is training 100 adults in custody this week to fight wildfires this summer. They'll learn how to operate a pump, lay hose line, work hand lines, set up emergency fire shelters and how to mop up at the end of a fire. They'll work in ten-person crews. The training is happening in the Tillamook State Forest.

Property Tax Scam

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- Scammers are now using property tax payments to steal financial information. Clackamas County has received reports of emails claiming businesses and residents owe property taxes. Clackamas County would not send an email asking for payment information. If you receive the email, look at the email address carefully. Some of the emails have the "m" in Clackamas replaced with an "n." Check the return address, don't click links, and if in doubt check directly with Clackamas County Assessment and Taxation.

45 Animals Seized From Property

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Clark County, WA) -- 45 animals have been seized from a property in Clark County. The Sheriff's Office started investigating the property in 2023 but couldn't get a search warrant until a goat escaped. A search of the property found several animals that were malnourished and living in poor conditions. 26 goats, five sheep, and 14 chickens were seized. They were examined by veterinarians and relocated. A judge prohibited Mohammad Aluaddin from owning any animals. His next court appearance is May 21st.

Fatal Shooting Investigation

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A man was shot and killed Sunday morning in Portland's Old Town. The shooting happened on Naito Parkway near the Steel Bridge. The man had died by the time police arrived. The suspect was gone and there hasn't been an arrest.

Four Shot During Child Exchange

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Kelso, WA) -- Four people were shot Friday afternoon at a house in Kelso while a child was being dropped off. The Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office says during the exchange, another group drove up, there was a dispute and shots were fired. Deputies found three people wounded at the house. A fourth person, a juvenile, was driven to St. John Medical Center. All of the shooting victims are expected to survive. The juvenile will be charged with three counts of assault.

Body Recovered From Willamette River

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office recovered a body in the Willamette River near Cathedral Park in St. Johns Saturday afternoon. It's the ninth body recovered from the river since April 13th. The Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the person's name and the cause of death.

Parents Sentenced For Exposing Child To Fentanyl

Posted About One Year Ago by KBND News

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland area parents who pleaded guilty to allowing their three-year-old child to ingest fentanyl have been sentenced to prison. The child overdosed and now needs round-the-clock care due to injuries from the fentanyl. The parents initially skipped their sentencing hearing, but later turned themselves in. Skipping the sentencing extended their prison terms. Samantha Smith was sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison. Delone Kelley was sentenced to six years.

Democrats Mobilize To Challenge Gluesenkamp Perez In Primary

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Long Beach, WA) -- U.S. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of southwest Washington state is facing a challenge from fellow Democrats. A group of voters in Pacific County are organizing to challenge Gluesenkamp Perez in next year's midterm. The group says the Democratic Congresswoman has "repeatedly voted and worked against the best interest of her Democratic constituents." Gluesenkamp Perez was one of just four Democrats to vote in favor of President Trump's SAVE Act, or Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act. Opponents say she's also voted against environmental protections and immigrant rights. The group of voters plans to attend tomorrow's meeting of the Democrats of Pacific County, where it will submit a resolution to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee asking it not to assist her campaign if there are other Democratic challengers in the race.

Remodeled Portland Park Opens

Posted About One Year Ago by KBND News

(Portland, OR) -- Southeast Portland's Parklane Park has opened after an extensive redesign and expansion. The five acre park has grown to 25 acres. It features a new playground, splash pad, basketball and tennis courts, soccer fields and much more. System Development Charges funded the renovation. Those are charges on new construction. A grand opening celebration will be held June 12th.

Juvenile Arrested In Fatal Stabbing

Posted About One Year Ago by KBND News

(Salem, OR) -- A 16-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a fatal stabbing at a Salem billiard hall. Early Thursday, police responded to The Cue Ball where two people were stabbed. Twenty-one-year-old Isac Rizo died at Salem Hospital. The other victim is a 20-year-old man who was hospitalized. The suspected was booked into the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center and charged with murder, attempted murder and assault.

Manufactured Home Park Lawsuit

Posted About One Year Ago by KBND News

(Portland, OR) -- A class action lawsuit has been filed against the California company that owns the Portland Mobile Estates in Southeast Portland. There are 207 units in the facility. The lawsuit claims the owners illegally added the cost of water and garbage to the tenants' monthly rate. Oregon law requires a landlord to tell tenants upfront what charges they are responsible to pay.

Local Catholic Leaders React To Election Of First American Pope

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Catholic leaders in Portland are reacting to the election of the first-ever American Pope. Father Michael Guimon of The Grotto in Northeast Portland tells KATU-TV he went to school with Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo the 14th. Guimon says he and Prevost attended seminary school in Chicago. He adds he's "delighted that we have an American pope" and says he believes Pope Leo will share Portland's values on social justice. The 69-year-old Pope Leo was born in Chicago and attended Villanova in Philadelphia.

May Election Ballots Received

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Oregon's election is on May 20th and if you're registered to vote you should have received a ballot. There are local offices and local measures on the ballot. If you have not received a ballot contact your county elections office. If you mail the ballot, it doesn't need a stamp. It can be postmarked May 20th but needs to arrive by May 27th. You can also drop ballots into county ballot boxes by 8 p.m. on the 20th.

Man Gets 12 Years For Stealing Wallet From 98-Year-Old Man

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Portland man is facing over a decade behind bars after stealing a 98-year-old man's wallet in a grocery store parking lot last Thanksgiving. A judge has sentenced 36-year-old Karon Jones to 12 years in prison for the incident at a Winco Foods parking lot on November 28th. Court documents say the victim was getting back into his car after shopping when Jones reached out from his parked vehicle next to the victim's car and snatched his wallet from his back pocket. The victim confronted Jones and tried to open his driver's side door while calling for help, but Jones punched the gas and drove away, throwing the victim to the ground. Jones was convicted of second-degree assault, first-degree robbery, and identity theft.

Multnomah County Board Approves Budget Proposal

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Multnomah County Board is signing off on Chair Jessica Vega Pederson's four-billion-dollar budget proposal. Board members voted to accept the budget yesterday, setting up a month of public comments before a final vote takes place. The budget proposal includes funding for community safety, 24-hour homeless shelters and rental assistance programs while cutting back funding for other homelessness services.

Behavioral Health Audit

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- An audit by the Oregon Secretary of State finds urgent action is needed to address the state's behavioral health crisis. Oregon has among the lowest mental health trends in the nation and the lowest access to support. The audit found the behavioral health system needs more data, funding, and a better plan to address the crisis. Crucial parts of the state's behavioral health system are either underfunded or have no funding at all. The audit makes 12 recommendations to improve data and address funding gaps.

Multnomah Falls Parking Permits Start May 23

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Visitors to Multnomah Falls will need timed parking permits after May 23rd. The permits are used every year to limit the number of vehicles trying to park at the falls. The permits are needed between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.. They cost two dollars and can be purchased at recreation dot gov. You can buy permits up to two weeks before your visit. The permit does not guarantee parking will be available. You can also park at the Gateway Transit Center and take a shuttle bus.

Fatal Pool Hall Stabbing

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Salem Police are investigating a fatal stabbing that happened at a pool hall early Thursday morning. Two men were involved in an altercation and they both suffered stab wounds. 21-year-old Isac Rico, of Salem, died at a hospital. A 20-year-old man was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Rizo's death is being investigated as a homicide.

Man Killed After Car Prowlers Use Garage Door Opener To Enter Home

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- An investigation is underway in southwest Washington after a group of car prowlers found a man's garage door opener and allegedly used it to enter his home and shoot him to death. It happened early Saturday morning in Vancouver. Police say the suspects were prowling vehicles in the man's neighborhood when they found his garage opener in his car and used it to open his garage door. The man was home and confronted the prowlers, who shot and killed him before fleeing the scene. Police are still searching for the suspects.

PCS Fundraising Plan

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Center Stage is in a financial crisis. They're launching a fundraising drive to avoid permanent closure. PCS was founded in 1988 and is the largest theater company in Portland. Over four million people have seen their shows over 37 years. Their goal is to raise nine-million-dollars by June 2026. The first phase of the effort is to raise two-and-a-half million dollars by August 31st. They've made cuts and reorganized the operation, but like many theater groups, the losses from the pandemic have made it difficult to recover.

Moms Ride Free At Oaks Park

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Moms ride for free at Oaks Park on Mother's Day. This Sunday, moms will receive a free ride bracelet with the purchase of a ride bracelet for their child. The bracelets include unlimited rides. The offer is only available at the ticket booth and not online.

Kyron Horman Case Review

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Fifteen years after Kyron Horman went missing from Skyline School in Portland, Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez says he's putting fresh eyes on the case. Vasquez says there are tens of thousands of pages of reports and evidence that needs to be reviewed. He's assigned a team to go over the case. They're giving him regular updates. He says he hopes to know more by this fall.

Armed Shoe Thief Sentenced

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A man who was armed with a gun and demanded a victim give him the Air Jordan 13 shoes he was wearing has been sentenced to prison. In 2023, Martel Mason confronted a man at an apartment complex near Clackamas Town Center and demanded he hand over his black-and-yellow Air Jordan shoes. Mason threatened to shoot the man if he didn't do it. Deputies searched Mason's apartment and found the shoes, the clothes he was wearing during the robbery, and a gun. Mason was sentenced to nearly six years in prison.

Kotek Expects Difficult Wildfire Season

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon Governor Tina Kotek says the state needs to be ready for a difficult wildfire season. Forecasters expect the summer to be drier and hotter than normal. The worst conditions could be from August through October. Kotek says state and federal firefighters will work together to bring fires under control. She's urging homeowners to take steps now to reduce the risk of fire on their property.

Oregon Sues To Maintain EV Charging Funding

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon is joining 15 states in a lawsuit against the federal government to maintain funding for electric vehicle charging stations. Oregon stands to lose over 26 million dollars. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield says Congress put the funding into law when it passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. It directed five billion dollars to be spent on national EV infrastructure. In January, President Trump signed an executive order that stopped the funding. The lawsuit claims that violates the federal law. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to maintain the funding while the case is decided.

Oregon Arrests In Sexual Predator Operation

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, DC) -- Three people in Oregon are under arrest as part of a nationwide sweep of child sex offenders. Operation Restore Justice arrested 205 people nationwide and rescued 115 children. The suspects arrested in Oregon are Robert Arias of Salem, 40-year-old Berret Brown of Vida, and Michael Cambalik of Beaverton. They all face federal child exploitation charges.

Huffing Driver Found Guilty Of Manslaughter In Crash

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- A driver who was high on inhalants has been found guilty by a Marion County jury of a crash that killed two people. Prosecutors say that last September Terrance Quackenbush-Benson was under the influence of inhalants when his truck crossed the center line and hit another vehicle head on. The driver and passenger in the car that was hit died. A third passenger suffered serious injuries and is still recovering. Quackenbush-Benson was found guilty of manslaughter and will be sentenced May 13th.

Fred Meyer Employee Pleads Guilty To Theft

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- A former employee of Fred Meyer has pleaded guilty to stealing over 60-thousand-dollars. Rainbow Stammet told loss prevention officers at the Oregon City store she used the money on video poker. She stole the money from self-checkout machines. She spent all of the money. She has started paying restitution to Fred Meyer and will be sentenced August 4th.

Portland Parking Costs

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- It'll be more expensive to park downtown under a proposal from Portland Mayor Keith Wilson. He wants parking fees to increase 25 percent, which would total three-dollars an hour downtown. Event district parking near the Moda Center and Providence Park would also increase 25 percent making it seven dollars an hour during games. It's expected to raise six-million-dollars a year. City Council could vote on the ordinance Thursday afternoon.

Leave Wildlife Where You Find Them

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- This is the time of year when wildlife have babies and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife says if you see them alone, leave them alone. Mothers will often leave babies alone while they hunt for food. If you take an animal, because you think it's abandoned, the mother will likely not take it back. Removing an animal can lead to a warning or citation from Oregon State Police. If you think an animal has been abandoned, call ODF-and-W.

Child Hospitalized After Shooting

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Willamina, OR) -- A 10-year-old from Yamhill County is being treated at a Portland-area hospital following a shooting in Willamina. The Sheriff's Office says the child suffered a single gunshot wound Sunday evening, and was flown by LifeFlight to Portland. No other information has been released, due to the ongoing investigation.

162 Year Prison Sentence

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Coos County, OR) -- A Coos County man has been sentenced to 162 years in prison for sexually abusing five children. The Oregon Attorney General's Office says two tips were received in 2021 that led to the discovery of child sex abuse material on an online account that was connected to Dewayne Forrest. Previous investigations dated back to 1990, but he was never charged. Agents followed up on the abuse complaints spanning 20 years and found five victims and the believe there are more. Forrest pleaded guilty to the charges.

Record Drug Bust Includes Oregon

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, DC) -- A raid in Salem is part of a record drug bust conducted by the federal government. The U.S. Department of Justice says 400 kilograms of fentanyl were seized. The operation was run by the Sinaloa Cartel. In Salem, more than two-point-eight-million dollars in cash, 50-thousand dollars in jewelry, and vehicles worth 150-thousand dollars were seized. Other searches happened in New Mexico, Utah, Arizona and Nevada. Sixteen people were arrested.

River Bodies Not Uncommon

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Eight bodies have been recovered in the Willamette River since April 1st. That includes two bodies that were located over the weekend. The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office says while that number is tragic, it's not unusually high. Most of those people died by accidental drowning or suicide, according to the Medical Examiner and investigators do not believe there is a connection between the cases. Authorities say water currents and temperature, along with more people enjoying river activities increases the likelihood remains will be found.

Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- A ceremony was held Tuesday at the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial to honor fallen officers. The names of three officers were recently added. Patrolman Andrew Laugeson died in 1917 after falling from a streetcar in Portland and hitting his head. In 1919, Policeman George Lowe was on foot patrol in Ashland when he was hit and killed by a train that switched tracks. In 1965, Silverton Assistant Police Chief Merle Bethscheider suffered a fatal heart attack pursuing a suspect. Governor Tina Kotek said the officers met the moment with dignity and heroism and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Credit Suisse Investigation

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, D.C.) -- Oregon Senator Ron Wyden is calling for a federal prosecution after Credit Suisse settled for 511-million-dollars in a tax evasion case. In 2023, the Senate Finance Committee investigated claims from a whistleblower that Credit Suisse Banks and Advisors hid more than 700-million-dollars offshore for Americans to avoid taxes. Wyden says the settlement proves the basis of their investigation. He's calling on the Trump Administration to criminally prosecute those responsible for the scheme.

Missing Iowa Woman's Remains Found In Oregon

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Harney County, OR) -- Oregon authorities say a missing Iowa woman's body has been found. Twenty-nine-year-old Kaylee Birt's remains were discovered by volunteer searchers earlier this week after she went missing on a solo trip to Oregon. Birt had been reported missing since April 4th.

Teenage Girl Reports Attempted Kidnapping

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- The Clark County Sheriff's Office is investigating the attempted kidnapping of a teenage girl. She told investigators she was on Northeast 149th Street near 5th Avenue Tuesday around 8:30 a.m. when a man armed with a gun told her to get into his car. The suspect is a white man in his 20s or 30s with shoulder-length brown hair, blue pants and an orange hooded sweatshirt. He was driving a newer four-door metallic blue sedan. Detectives are asking people in the area to review surveillance video between 7 and 9 a.m. on Tuesday to see if it recorded the suspect's vehicle.

Fentanyl Overdose Conviction

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- A Beaverton mother has been found guilty of assault by a Washington County jury in the overdose of her two-year-old child. Prosecutors say in 2023, Megan Meek's child was in the back seat of her car, along with a bag of fentanyl pills. When she arrived at her babysitter's house, the toddler wasn't breathing. Police administered Narcan, but the child overdosed again at the hospital, because so much of the drug was in her body. Meek will be sentenced in August.

Suspect Arrested In Fatal Shooting

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A suspect has been arrested in connection with a shooting April 27th in the South Waterfront. Forty-four-year-old Joshua Manahan was found shot near South Harbor Drive and Harrison Street. He died at a hospital. The suspect was identified as 42-year-old Rodney Arreguin. He was arrested Saturday and booked for Murder in the Second Degree.

Clackamas Retail Theft Mission

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Clackamas, OR) -- The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office recovered 45-hundred dollars in stolen goods during a ten-hour mission focused on retail stores in the area of 82nd and Johnson Creek Boulevard. Deputies stopped theft suspects as they left businesses, leading to 25 arrests. They say several people were also found with meth and fentanyl. One suspect is believed to have committed a dozen retail thefts from the same store in the past six months.

National Guard Deployment

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon National Guard held a mobilization ceremony for Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team at the Salem Armory on Sunday. Governor Tina Kotek thanked the soldiers and their families for their commitment and sacrifice. They'll be part of Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. They will be serving in Djibouti, Kenya and Somalia to conduct security and base defense operations.

National Guard Deployment

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon National Guard held a mobilization ceremony for Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team at the Salem Armory on Sunday. Governor Tina Kotek thanked the soldiers and their families for their commitment and sacrifice. They'll be part of Task Force BATAAN in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. They will be serving in Djibouti, Kenya and Somalia to conduct security and base defense operations.

Fee Cut To Spur Home Construction

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland City Council will consider eliminating System Development Charges on five-thousand new housing units to help increase construction. System Development Charges fund the infrastructure that's needed for new developments. The cost runs between 15-thousand and 50-thousand dollars adding as much as six percent to the cost of a home. Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson made the announcement. Kotek has been running behind in her goal to build more homes to meet demand.

Multnomah County Discrimination Complaints Report

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Multnomah County needs to improve its process of investigating discrimination complaints among employees. A review found the Complaints Investigation Unit responds kindly and impartially, but the process takes too long and some fear it could be weaponized against employees. They say there was a lack of transparency which led t to a lack of trust.

Oregon Coast Aquarium Has Blind Seal Pup

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Newport, OR) -- The Oregon Coast Aquarium is caring for a blind seal pup. The Pacific Harbor seal was rescued as an abandoned pup in British Columbia, at just two weeks old, in August of 2023. Due to infections, both of Garry's eyes were surgically removed, which meant she could not return to the wild. She arrived in Newport in January. She's learning to use her highly sensitive whiskers to detect movement and navigate her habitat. Garry appears in public several days a week in the Oregon Coast Aquarium's pinniped habitat.

Judges Celebrate Marriage Equality

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Several Oregon court judges are offering free weddings in June to celebrate marriage equality. June is the month that the U.S. Supreme Court legalized interracial and same-sex marriages, decades apart. Free weddings will be held June 7th at Grand Gesture Books in Portland. The Beaverton Municipal Court is hosting a similar event on June 29th during the Pride Beaverton Festival. Tigard's municipal court is offering free weddings all of June. Couples need to get a valid marriage license from a county clerk before the ceremony.

Suspect Arrested For Explosions

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Salem Police have arrested a suspect for a string of explosions. It started April 23rd when a vehicle was targeted. Several other explosions occurred over the next few days. The Bomb Squad identified 38-year-old Jason Kiser as a suspect. Kiser and the victim know each other, and an improvised explosive device was found in the suspect's car.

Shooting Suspect Arrested After Extensive Search

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police arrested a shooting suspect following an extensive search and investigation. The shooting happened April 23rd in Southeast Portland. A victim was hospitalized with critical injuries but is expected to survive. Witnesses described the suspect's vehicle which police located and pursued. Amir Christianson was identified as the shooting suspect. He was arrested and also faces other charges including child sexual abuse.

Warning To Be Bear Aware

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Ashland, OR) -- This is the time of year to be bear aware, because bears are waking up from hibernation and they're hungry. Oregon's Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds you to not give bears a free lunch. The warning is especially important in Ashland, where bears frequently visit human-populated areas. Last year, 137 cases of bear conflict were reported in Jackson County, with 38 inside the city of Ashland. ODF-and-W urges you to keep food sources, including trash, in secured areas bears can't reach.

Republicans Propose ODOT Cuts

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Republicans in the Oregon House are proposing 730-million-dollars in cuts to the Oregon Department of Transportation to avoid raising taxes. The cuts include the Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund, eliminating 68-million-dollars' worth of vacant positions, and the bike and pedestrian safety programs. They would also cut passenger rail, social equity and civil rights, and three percent of the administrative staff. Democrats are proposing a nearly two-billion-dollar increase in taxes and fees to support ODOT.

Oregon Poetry Out Loud Champion

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The national Poetry Out Loud championship will be held in Washington D.C. this week and Oregon's champion will be there. Sixteen-year-old Bena Rodecap is a junior at Portland's Grant High School. While in D-C, she'll meet with members of Oregon's congressional delegation. The national championship competition is Tuesday and will be livestreamed on the National Endowment for the Arts website.

Fatal Shooting Investigation

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- Vancouver Police are investigating a shooting that left a man dead early Saturday. Officers responded to a call about an assault on Southeast French Road where they found a man who had been shot. The man died at a hospital. Shortly before the homicide occurred, police were called to an auto prowl on Northeast 15th Street. Detectives are investigating whether there is any connection between the two incidents.

Several Arrests In Eugene Demonstrations

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Eugene, OR) -- Eugene Police made several arrests during demonstrations on May Day and Friday night. During May Day demonstrations, as the Mobile Response Team was taking a woman into custody, a group surrounded the officers. One person spit on an officer and was also arrested. Four others were cited. Friday night, demonstrators blocked traffic and tagged the federal building and a Nike building. Several people were arrested.

Oregon Recovers Over $2 Million For Consumers

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Oregon's Division of Financial Regulation says it recovered more than two-million-dollars for Oregonians in the first quarter of this year. The division received more than 14 hundred complaints about insurance, mortgages, securities, loans and other financial services. In one incident, an insurance company was notified that a customer had sold their vehicle but failed to remove it from their policy. The additional charges weren't noticed until months later. DFR says its advocates helped the customer get a 33-hundred-dollar refund.

Oregon Forests Threatened By Drought, Insects And Disease

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- More than half-a-million acres of trees in Oregon have damage because of drought, bugs and disease. The Oregon Department of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service released a report that shows drought is weakening trees, especially on the eastern foothills of the Cascades and in Northeast Oregon making them more vulnerable to insects and disease. They believe it's a conservative estimate, because it doesn't take into account root disease that needs to be determined by ground surveys that require more time and personnel.

Teen Arrested For School Threat

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Scio, OR) -- The Linn County Sheriff's Office has arrested a 17-year-old boy from Scio for making threats about a school shooting. A teacher reported the threat. Deputies talked to the boy's family and determined there was no immediate danger. The family had guns that were locked in a safe. They were removed from the home. The juvenile admitted to making statements about a school shooting, but said he wasn't serious. The boy was arrested and taken to Juvenile Detention where he was charged with Disorderly Conduct in the First Degree.

Teenager Arrested For Shooting

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- A teenager is facing charges after allegedly firing shots from a rifle in West Salem. Several residents called 911 Tuesday afternoon after hearing the gunfire. Police searched the area near Elm Street and Kingwood Avenue Northwest. A police canine team helped locate the suspect in a house. The 16-year-old boy was taken into custody. An altered semi-automatic rifle was seized. The teen was booked into the Yamhill County Juvenile Justice System and will be charged in Polk County.

OSU Research Finds AI Helps Student Writers

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Corvallis, OR) -- Artificial intelligence can significantly enhance creativity in student writing, but only if they're taught how to use AI. A study at Oregon State University found when students were taught to use AI for finding opportunities and brainstorming, they produced more creative stories. Without the instruction, highly creative students did worse. When taught how to use AI in writing, the outcomes were more creative, especially for students who initially scored lowest in creativity.

Oregon Joins Lawsuit Over Ameri-Corps Funding Cut

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Several states, including Oregon, are suing the federal government over the termination of federal Ameri-Corps grants. AmeriCorps is an independent federal agency tasked with connecting people with public service to address educational, public safety and environmental needs. A February executive order signed by President Trump effectively ended the program and placed 85 percent of its workforce on administrative leave. The suit claims the cancelation of grants makes it impossible for states to support programs run by the national volunteer agency.

Man Charged In Unusual Burglaries

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The suspect in several unusual burglaries has been indicted by a Multnomah County grand jury. Prosecutors say Tyler Long allegedly broke into vacant storefronts by cutting through interior walls to access valuable merchandise in neighboring businesses. In one case, multiple tablets, cell phones and computers were taken from an AT&T store in North Portland. A similar hole in the wall allowed access to a northeast Portland jewelry store. Long has an extensive criminal history and was on probation for 18 days when the crime spree began last November. He was indicted on numerous burglary and other charges this month.

Shooting Murder Conviction

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- A Multnomah County jury has convicted a man for shooting two people in 2023. Geoffrey Hammond was driving for Uber and stopped, blocking a lane of traffic, near the Moxy Hotel in Portland. He got into a confrontation with Ryan Martin as he drove past. Martin stopped and walked back to Hammond's car and Martin was fatally shot in the chest. Hammond also shot a witness in the leg who photographed the incident. Hammond admitted the shooting to 911 and said he was justified. Neither of the men was armed. Hammond will be sentenced in June.

Online Training To Recognize Child Abuse

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- The Oregon Department of Human Services has created a new online training program to recognize and report child abuse. Oregon law mandates that professionals in healthcare, law enforcement, social work and education fields must report child abuse. The training takes about an hour and includes identifying the signs of child abuse, the role of personal biases to know when abuse should be reported, and how to file a report.

Reported Burglary Suicide Investigation

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- The Clark County Sheriff's Office has learned more about an incident where a man committed suicide after what was reported as a burglary. It happened on April 23rd. Charles Gardiner, the Interim Chief of the Cowlitz Tribal Public Safety Department, left the home and was found dead from a gunshot wound inside of a vehicle. Detectives have learned there was not a burglary. They still believe Gardiner died from suicide. He is also being investigated for sex offenses against a juvenile. Separate investigations are underway into both incidents.

Trade Important To Oregon's Economy

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- The Portland Metro Chamber released its latest State of Trade Report which shows 42-billion-dollars in goods and services were exported in 2022. Nearly 90 percent of Oregon's exporters are small- and medium-sized businesses. Ten percent of Oregon's Gross Domestic Product comes from the export of goods, with three to five percent from services. Semiconductors remain Oregon's top export product.

Salem Adds Speed Detection To Red Light Cameras

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Salem, OR) -- Two of Salem's photo enforced red light cameras will start issuing tickets for speeding. The northbound-facing cameras at Commercial Street and Kuebler Boulevard and Commercial Street at Madrona Avenue will issue tickets for both running red lights and speeding. Starting today through May 30th, warnings will be issued for both violations. A police officer verifies the violation before a ticket is sent in the mail to the vehicle's registered owner. Over the 17 years the cameras have been in place there's been a steady decrease in crashes.

Police Investigate Attempted Abduction

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Portland, OR) -- Portland Police are trying to identify a suspect in a possible attempted abduction. Tuesday morning, a woman was in her residence near Southeast 50th and Harrison getting ready to leave when she noticed her stroller and child were gone. She ran out to the street and saw a man pushing the stroller down the street. She punched the man in the face and he ran, without the stroller and child. The child wasn't hurt. The man is described as white, in his mid-50s, six feet tall and 250 pounds. He was wearing a black beanie, black medical-type mask, black zip up sweatshirt and black jeans.

Hillsboro Hops Release New Stadium Renderings

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- The Hillsboro Hops have released new renderings of their baseball stadium that's under construction. The stadium is positioned to have the sun behind fans in the main seating area. There's a wraparound concourse, beer garden and six dining options. The premium club level has a nine-thousand square foot lounge with chef-inspired food, padded seats and multiple bars. The stadium will hold six thousand fans for baseball games and seven thousand people for concerts. Construction will be finished by December and ready for next year's season.

Wyden International Travel

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Washington, D.C.) -- Oregon U.S. Senator Ron Wyden is telling Secretary of State Marco Rubio the Trump Administration needs to restore travel rights to millions of international visitors. The Oregon Democrat says the current approach to international travelers prompted a number of countries to issue warnings against traveling to the U.S., which Wyden says could be a major blow to upcoming sporting events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Molalla Man Pleads Guilty To Sex Abuse

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Oregon City, OR) -- After a ten year investigation, a Molalla man has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing his adopted sisters. They were all younger than ten at the time. Dennis Fleck is now 34. Fleck was investigated in 2013, but there wasn't enough evidence to charge him with a crime, and only one of the girls disclosed abuse back then. But in 2022, the detective re-opened the case when he learned the other two sisters had also been abused. Fleck pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree sex abuse.

Historic Bell Stolen From School

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Hillsboro, OR) -- Hillsboro Police are searching for an historic school bell stolen last weekend. Investigators say someone took the David Hill bell and its commemorative placard, which had been on display at the Hillsboro School District Oak Street campus for several decades. The bell is the original bell from the David Hill School.

E-Scooter Battery Burns

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Vancouver, WA) -- No injuries are reported after the battery on an electric scooter caught fire Monday in Vancouver, Washington. Hazardous Materials firefighters say the battery experienced a thermal runaway which caused the fire and allowed toxic gases to be released. Firefighters wore protective suits and breathing masks while they put the scooter in a salt-brine filled container to cool the thermal runaway and drain the power in the battery cells. Firefighters say batteries that are damaged, have swelling, leaking or get hot should be disposed of at a recycler.

Oregon Invests $10 Million In AI

Posted About One Year Ago by 24/7 News Source

(Beaverton, OR) -- Oregon is investing ten-million-dollars in artificial intelligence-based education. Governor Tina Kotek made the announcement in Beaverton at a forum hosted by the semiconductor industry. Oregon and NVIDIA, which is a leader in AI chips, will work together to increase education and skill-building that will improve Oregon's AI workforce. Oregon colleges and universities will launch an AI Ambassador Program to improve education about AI. The money comes from the Oregon CHIPS Act.