The wrongful death cases in the 2020 Labor Day fires are likely to be settled
Two families of people who died in Santiam Canyon wildfires three years ago now have trial dates — one in July of next year, the other in August. About 96% of wrongful death cases have been resolved or dismissed before trial in Oregon over the past five years, according to Oregon Judicial Department data. Both lawsuits name PacifiCorp, Consumers Power Inc., Marion County, Stayton Fire District, and Marion County Multi Agency Telecommunications as defendants and seek millions in damages. (Capi Lynn/Salem Statesman Journal)
Oregon may chip in to help certify organic farms, but ag industry groups aren’t buying it
A farm industry coalition has objected to legislation that would have Oregon’s government chip in for organic certification costs, arguing the sector shouldn’t receive favored treatment. The Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, Oregon Dairy Farmers Association, Oregon Association of Nurseries and other groups say the state should instead try to support a variety of agricultural production. On the other hand, supporters of Senate Bill 1058 say it’s a worthwhile investment that would help a diverse mix of crop and livestock producers while hopefully encouraging others to adopt organic production. (Mateusz Perkowski/Capital Press)
A man is suing a Bend police officer, alleging assault
Caleb Hamlin alleges Bend Officer Kevin Uballez used excessive force when he arrested him on June 6, 2021, according to the lawsuit filed in the Deschutes County Circuit Court on May 17. The lawsuit also states Uballez falsely arrested Hamlin and alleges the officer violated his rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth amendments, which forbid unlawful search and seizure and guarantee the right to due process and equal protection under the law. Hamlin is seeking more than $1 million in damages from Uballez and the city of Bend. (Bryce Dole/Bend Bulletin)
2 Southwest Washington cities consider sharing police services
The city of Ridgefield could soon provide police services to La Center. A Seattle-based consulting firm found La Center has struggled with declining revenues for the past several years and is exploring ways to provide needed services to its community. Prior to 2017, gambling taxes from La Center’s four cardrooms were the city’s biggest source of tax revenue. That changed after the ilani casino opened nearby. The consulting firm’s study discussing the benefits and drawbacks of sharing services with Ridgefield was presented to the La Center City Council last week. (Shari Phiel/The Columbian)
Medford police shot a man allegedly burglarizing an unoccupied house
Medford police officers shot a man who was allegedly armed and burglarizing an unoccupied house on Saturday evening. Nearby residents reported the burglary on Angelcrest Drive just before 7 p.m. Within about 10 minutes of arriving at the home, officers reported they had shot the man. He was treated at the scene for his injuries and taken to a nearby hospital. Police have not provided details on the man’s identity, the extent of his injuries, or what led to the shooting. A major crimes team is investigating. (OPB Staff)