Author: KTVZ

KTVZ

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — National surveys show that most Americans think juries are important, but about one in four Oregonians didn’t respond when state courts summoned them for jury duty this year. Another 25% asked to be excused from jury service.

A new statewide task force will start meeting in January to look at why this is happening and how to remove barriers that keep people from serving.

The Task Force on Removing Barriers to Jury Service was created by Senate Bill 1175, a new law passed during the 2025 legislative session.

“The constitutional right to a trial by jury is a cornerstone of U.S. democracy and the Oregon judicial system,” Oregon Supreme Court Chief Justice Meagan A. Flynn said. “Whether jurors end up serving during a trial or not, participation in the jury process helps protect the right to a fair trial, promotes civic engagement and increases the public’s understanding of the justice system.”

“Yet the number of Oregonians answering the call to jury service is declining, often due to barriers beyond their control,” she said. “Many cannot afford to take time off work, find it too difficult to travel to a faraway courthouse, or may not have someone to take care of their children while they serve. This makes it harder to ensure that those who do serve fully represent their communities.”

Chief Justice Flynn, Gov. Tina Kotek, and legislative leaders appointed 15 task force members from all three branches of government. Together, they will:

Look at how Oregon pays people who serve on juries, see how that affects how many people show up for jury service and compare Oregon to other states.

Suggest ways to improve how jurors are paid so that more people are willing and able to serve.

Come up with ideas for how to inform the public about jury service and why it’s important.

Find and suggest solutions to other problems that make it hard for people to serve on a jury.

The task force must turn in a final report by Dec. 15, 2026.

About Jury Service in Oregon

At Oregon’s state courts in 2025:

More than 578,000 Oregonians have been called for jury duty.

About 25% of people who received a jury summons asked to be excused from jury duty. The number of people asking for excusals has gone up about 16% each year since 2017.

The courts granted excusals to about 21% of people who asked for it.

Nearly 26% of people did not respond to their jury summons.

When people do respond and are picked to serve, they might be on a jury for just one day or for several months. This depends on the type of jury and the length of the trial.

State Law for Juror Payment

Oregon pays jurors $10 per day for the first two days, and $25 per day after that.

If jurors get paid by their employer for the work time they miss, they must turn down the juror payment from the state, unless their job contract allows them to take both.

In all situations, the state pays jurors either 20 cents for every mile between their home and the courthouse, or the cost of a roundtrip public transportation ticket.

State Law for Employers

Oregon does not require employers to pay workers for the time they miss while serving on a jury.

Employers with 10 or more workers do still have to provide health, disability, life, or other insurance coverage for employees during their jury service.

Employers cannot fire, threaten or pressure someone because they are serving.

Employers cannot require people to use vacation or sick time for jury service.

Task Force Members

Tom Andersen, (D-Salem), Oregon State Legislature

Bryan Brock, Oregon District Attorneys Association

Timothy Dooley, Association of Oregon Counties

Keren Farkas, Oregon State Bar

Nansi Lopez, state Racial Justice Council

James I. Manning, Jr., (D-Eugene), Oregon State Legislature

Kimberly McCullough (chair), Oregon Judicial Department government relations

Judge Tucker Rossetto, Beaverton Municipal Court

Presiding Judge Matthew Shirtcliff, Baker County Circuit Court

Judge Chanpone Sinlapasai, Multnomah County Circuit Court

Kim Thatcher, (R-Keizer), Oregon State Legislature

Kia Tolbert, a Roseburg attorney who provides legal defense in criminal proceedings

Kim Wallan, (R-Medford), Oregon State Legislature

Royce Williams, a Portland attorney with experience with civil jury trials

Vacant – representative of an association representing businesses (person previously appointed has changed positions; new appointment coming soon)

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KTVZ

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) — Rep. Janelle Bynum (OR-05) and fellow Reps. Eli Crane (AZ-02), Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) introduced the bipartisan Wildfire Aerial Response Safety Act on Thursday to support wildfire response operations by addressing the impact of unauthorized drones flying in restricted airspace during a wildfire.

When an unauthorized drone enters restricted airspace during a wildfire, fire response agencies are often required to ground their aircraft, to avoid the risk of a collision.

In Oregon, and across the country, there have been several instances of this happening, including during Central Oregon’s Flat Fire this summer, which delayed response efforts on the blaze that burned more than 23,000 acres and destroyed five homes and other structures near Sisters.

The bill would require the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct a study on the impact of drone incursions on wildfire suppression and explore available techniques to address unauthorized drone activity. 

“Earlier this year, a drone delayed the aerial fire response to the Flat Fire in Central Oregon,” said Rep. Bynum. “We know all too well that wildfires are challenging enough to get controlled without any additional obstacles. The last thing we need is recreational drones getting in the way of our firefighters’ critical work to save lives and property. That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan bill to ensure fire crews can do their work without interference.” 

“I’m proud to co-introduce this bipartisan legislation to address the growing issue of drones interfering with aerial fire suppression efforts. Arizona is prone to devastating wildfires, and it’s imperative that we minimize obstruction and delays,” said Rep. Crane. “With our bill, Congress would have the necessary information to craft policies that help our firefighters combat wildfires before they get out of control. I urge my colleagues to support our approach.”

“Fires in Colorado and across the West now rage year-round, growing both in duration and intensity, which is why our bill, the Wildfire Aerial Response Safety Act, is so necessary,” said Rep. Neguse. “This bill ensures our firefighters can protect communities and operate without unnecessary risks from unauthorized drones. It is a common-sense proposal that if enacted will bolster worker and public safety.”

“Unauthorized drones are putting lives at risk and hampering wildfire response efforts across the West — including right here in Arizona,” said Rep. Ciscomani. “I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to build on the 2020 study and examine real, on-the-ground tools that first responders can use to neutralize these incursions. As wildfire seasons grow longer and more dangerous, we must give our crews every possible advantage to protect our communities and keep response operations safe and effective.”

The Oregon Department of Forestry, which is responsible for wildland fire protection across more than 16 million acres in Oregon, submitted the following statement about the growing and urgent threat posed by unauthorized Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operations within active wildfire airspace:

“Unauthorized UAS flights near wildfires create an immediate and serious safety hazard. When a UAS enters the airspace, our firefighting aircraft are forced to disengage, pilots lose the ability to operate safely, and ground crews lose vital aerial support at the most critical moments of suppression. These interruptions give fires time to grow and place firefighters, pilots, and nearby communities at increased risk. This is a real and recurring operational threat we now face on active incidents,” said Sarah Prout, ODF UAS Program Lead.

You can find a one-pager on the bill here and the full text of it here.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office said Thursday that it’s proud to celebrate the success of the recent, 25th annual Shop with a Cop program, which provided warmth, comfort, and holiday cheer to 95 children across Deschutes County.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, and law enforcement partners, the program invested $57,000 directly into meeting real needs for local families, the DCSO said in a news release we’re providing here in full:

This year’s program highlighted the depth of need in our community. Children asked for bedding, warm clothing, and even basic kitchen items like silverware, cups, and pots and pans — items that help families cook meals and stay warm.

Shop with a Cop continues to go beyond holiday gifts, offering dignity, comfort, and hope.

“You can’t help but be moved when you see the smile on a child’s face as they pick out their very first set of warm pajamas or a blanket to call their own,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “Some of these kids asked for basic household items, not just toys. It’s emotional because you see first-hand how this program is meeting real needs and making a real difference.”

Shop With a Cop was powered by 79 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, many of whom participated on multiple days:

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office

Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Posse

Deschutes County Parole and Probation

Bend Police Department

Redmond Police Department

Sunriver Police Department

Black Butte Police Department

Oregon State Police 

Special thanks to:

Kay Walters (Redmond volunteer coordinator)

Amanda Surplus (Bend volunteer coordinator)

AmeriTitle

Kendall Auto Group

Washington Trust Bank

Bend Police Department

Sunriver Citizen Patrol

Re/Max

Mid Oregon Credit Union

Coldwell Banker

DCSO Spouses Group

Eastmont Church Women’s Group

The program also received generous support from:

Walmart (Bend & Redmond)

Pappy’s Pizza (Redmond)

Abby’s Pizza (Bend)

Dutch Bros

McDonald’s

Franz Bakery

Fundraising for Shop with a Cop takes place year-round, and every contribution helps the program continue meeting real needs in our community. This year, the community rallied to raise an additional $31,000, which, combined with funds carried over from last year, allowed DCSO to make a real impact for this milestone 25th anniversary. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is deeply grateful for the ongoing support from across the county.

How to Donate:

Online:

https://sheriff.deschutes.org/community/programs/shop-with-a-cop/

By Check:

Payable to: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – Shop with a Cop

Mail to: 63333 Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97703

In Person:

Drop off your donation at the front office—please label it “Shop with a Cop.”

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KTVZ

(Update: Video Added)

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) — As families on the Warm Springs Reservation prepare for the winter months and the holiday season, a substantial gift of support for their pets is on its way. 

Fences For Fido, a  Greater Good Ambassador, in partnership with Warm Springs Commodities, has received 20,000 pounds of donated dog and cat food from Purina to support families with pets on the Warm Springs Reservation. 

Located in Jefferson County, the Warm Springs Reservation is more than 15 miles from the nearest town with veterinary services or pet supplies, leaving families with limited access to basic animal care resources. Despite these challenges, families consistently show deep love and commitment to their pets, often stretching limited resources to ensure their animals remain healthy and at home. 

This holiday season, the donation from Purina Pet Food arrives at a moment when it can make the greatest impact. 

A Lifeline for Local Families and Their Pets 

Fences For Fido has operated a supplemental pet food bank on the Warm Springs Reservation five years, in partnership with Warm Springs Commodities, providing dog and cat food year-round to families who need it. This large-scale donation from Greater Good and Purina will significantly expand that support. 

“This is truly the greatest holiday gift we could offer families with pets,” said Kelly Peterson, Co-Founder and Board Chair of Fences For Fido. “Access to pet food and supplies is limited on the Reservation, and this donation helps ensure that pets stay healthy, fed, and together with the families who love them.” 

A pet food giveaway event will be held this Saturday, distributing dog and cat food directly to households throughout the Reservation. 

Strengthening a Trusted Partnership 

Warm Springs Commodities plays a vital role in meeting community needs by distributing essential food and supplies. Their ongoing partnership with Fences For Fido ensures that pet food reliably reaches families who otherwise have very few access points. 

“We’re grateful for this partnership and for Greater Good’s generosity,” said Theo Perez, Director of Warm Springs Commodities. “Families here care deeply about their pets, and this support helps lighten the load during a time when many budgets are stretched.” 

A Circle of Care in Action 

Fences For Fido has long served socially, financially, and geographically isolated communities across the Pacific Northwest. In addition to unchaining more than 3,700 dogs and delivering more than 2,000 dog houses, the organization has distributed over 700,000 pounds of pet food to families in need. 

On the Warm Springs Reservation, Fences For Fido provides year-round pet services—including spay/neuter, vaccines and wellness clinics, emergency veterinary care, and ongoing pet food support. 

Pet Food Giveaway Event 

Date: Saturday, December 13th, from 10 am – 3 pm (while supplies last) Location: Warm Springs Commodities, Warm Springs Reservation Details: Free dog and cat food for families on the Reservation 

About Fences For Fido 

Fences For Fido is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of dogs by unchaining them and providing fences, shelter, veterinary care, and essential pet support across Oregon and Washington. The organization serves socially, financially, and geographically isolated communities—ensuring pets remain healthy, safe, and with the families who love them. www.FencesForFido.org 

About Warm Springs Commodities 

Warm Springs Commodities supports families on the Warm Springs Reservation by providing nutritious food and essential resources in partnership with tribal programs and community agencies. 

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A house cleaner and two other Bend residents have been arrested on burglary and theft charges, accused of stealing about $1,200 worth of items from a northwest Bend rental home, police said Thursday.

On Saturday, Nov. 29, Bend Police responded to a report of a burglary in the 1000 block of NW Baltimore Avenue, Bend Police Communications Manager Sheila Miller said.

The homeowners returned from a trip out of town and “discovered that a variety of their belongings were missing,” Miller said.

“The homeowners rent their house out when they leave town, and the company that manages the rentals hired a third-party cleaner to come in after the visitors departed,” she said. 

The homeowners reviewed their surveillance video footage and saw the house cleaner arrive in the early afternoon of Sunday, Nov. 16. About two hours later, two other people arrived and entered the home.

The three left about 10 minutes later “with a large number of items in garbage bags,” Miller said.

The missing items were estimated at about $1,200 in value.   

Miller said an investigation determined the cleaner was 36-year-old Bend resident Heather Cordier. The two other suspects were identified 41-year-old Stephanie Lafountaine and 47-year-old Stephen Rechner, also of Bend.  

On Tuesday of this week, between 12:40 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., Bend Police patrol officers, detectives and members of the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team raided two residences and recovered items connected to the burglary at both places, Miller said.

Search warrants were executed at an apartment in the 1700 block of SE Tempest Driver and another residence in the 600 block of NE Bellevue Drive. Officers were assisted by drone operators, negotiators and community service officers.  

Cordier, LaFountaine and Rechner were taken into custody, as was Sergei Newlin, 33, also of Bend, who had an unrelated warrant for a parole violation, Miller said. All four were booked into the Deschutes County Jail.   

Cordier, Rechner and Lafountaine each face first-degree charges of burglary, theft and criminal trespass.

Miller told KTVZ News she could not provide the surveillance video or images from it, as it is evidence in an ongoing investigation.

Asked if this type of crime would prompt any tips for the public to be aware of, Miller told us: “It’s tricky, because this was a third-party company that hired a cleaning person.”

“Of course, we would always recommend that people do their due diligence when hiring someone who will have access to their home,” she said. “In this case, that may not apply, because these people were using a company that then hired someone who committed these crimes.”

KTVZ News also asked Miller if this was believed to be an isolated incident.

“We do not have any indication that there are other victims,” she told us. “But our investigation is ongoing, and if members of the public believe something similar has happened to them, we’d like to hear about it.”

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Claire Elmer

(Update: Comments by Shannon Brady, Mt. Bachelor; ‘snow drought’ declared)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Record-high temperatures are keeping Mt. Bachelor from opening as planned, leaving the slopes bare well into December and raising questions about what the delay means for Central Oregon’s winter tourism.

In mid-December, Mt. Bachelor is typically buzzing with skiers and snowboarders from across the country. But this year, warm days and little snow in the Cascades have put the season on pause.

“We are seeing temperatures about 20 degrees above where we should be for this time of year,” said KTVZ Meteorologist Shannon Brady. “We’re seeing some records broken across the region, many of which have been held for over 100 years.”

In fact, federal meteorologists on Thursday declared a “snow drought” around much of the West, including Oregon, saying the early-season snow cover across the region is the lowest in 24 years of satellite data, and “nearly every major river basin in the West experienced a November among the top 5 warmest on record.”

Snow Water Equivalent as a percentage of the 1991-2000 median as of Dec. 7 (Drought.gov)

The warmth this week is tied to a stubborn high-pressure system sitting over the West Coast. But Brady said a change may be on the horizon.

“It is starting to look like we might see some snow by next week, which is good news, as some colder air moves in,” she said. “Pressure is going to drop a little bit, so maybe by mid to late next week we’ll get some measurable snowfall.”

For Mt. Bachelor, the later start isn’t ideal but not unprecedented. Resort officials say a slow opening doesn’t necessarily mean a low snow season.

“The ski industry is such a business that is reliant on the weather. So, it’s tough,” said Lauren Burke, Mt. Bachelor’s communications director. “We’ve seen years where we open in mid-December and get 500, 550 inches of snow, which is well above our seasonal average.”

Burke said the delay impacts early-season revenue, but their long spring keeps the ski season stretching into late May.

“We’re really committed to opening as soon as conditions allow and staying open as late as we can,” she said. “As soon as the snow comes, we know our skiers and riders are ready to go.”

Visit Bend echoed that optimism in an email to KTVZ on Thursday. Tim Neville said December is historically Bend’s most affordable month for lodging and the lowest occupancy of the year. Any dip now will likely be made up by pent-up demand, once the mountain opens.

In the meantime, Central Oregonians are still getting outdoors, taking advantage of fewer crowds on hiking and biking trails. And some are simply staying patient.

Bend skier Sam Schroeder. said, “Given the slow start, the middle and latter half of the season will be even better.”

With potential snow in the forecast next week, the ski season may not be far behind.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — From a decrease in reported graffiti across town to potential changes to roundabouts, KTVZ News asked Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler your pressing questions Thursday morning.

Make sure to submit your questions for the mayor here. You can remain anonymous if you wish.

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Triton Notary

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)– The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating a special act of kindness that helped a local family in need.

During this year’s Shop With a Cop event, deputies met a child whose family was going through a tough time and discovered there were no beds for the kids to sleep in. That encounter led to a partnership with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit that builds and delivers beds for children who don’t have one of their own.

Thanks to that partnership, deputies were able to provide two new beds, complete with cozy blankets and handmade quilts donated by local quilters. Deputies delivered the bedding this week, calling the moment “unforgettable.” The family expressed deep gratitude, saying it was an uplifting experience to receive such a meaningful gift.

The Sheriff’s Office says it looks forward to continuing to work with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to identify families in need across the community because, as they put it, “no kid should sleep on the floor in our community.”

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Tyson Beauchemin

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon National Guard’s Youth Challenge Program graduated its 70th cadet class Wednesday, to the cheers of families, friends and proud teens who had been considered “at risk” and headed for trouble, but now have found a new path forward.

Students at the facility east of Bend, Oregon’s only accredited statewide alternative high school, first undergo an intensive 22 weeks of military-style, regimented behavior and education, followed by a 2-year post-residential phase, where cadets return to their hometowns and focus on their goals and objectives.

Those who complete the program successfully say it profoundly changes them and puts them on the right path.

Graduate Wyatt Ehlrlich said, “At the start, I had a hard time with the yelling and stuff. But throughout the program, I just learned it’s kind of their job to yell at you, you know? But I’m coming back as a mentor for the next class. I’ve gained 20 ribbons. I mean, I’ve done a lot here, and I’m really proud of myself for that.”

Fellow OYCP graduate Miguel Angel-Moreno told us, “My experience going to this program was actually really well. There was a lot of things I never knew I could do here. I built a lot of positive relationships and better habits, just so I don’t fall back into the person I was before.”

Graduate Sinai Sweet said the lessons she’s learned have been clear: “Keep their head high, chin up, chest out, and stand tall. Nothing can beat you if you don’t let it, and you’re stronger than you think.”

“Your mindset is where it all starts, and to do that, I think coming here is the best place to strengthen your mindset, to build character,” Sweet said.

Nearly all the students graduating Wednesday are going to return to high school. Some of them earned enough credits through the program to get their diplomas Wednesday. A handful of students will be enlisting in the military.

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KTVZ

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Pertussis cases in Oregon have reached an all-time high, the Oregon Health Authority said Wednesday, prompting state officials to urge people to make sure they and their families are up to date on vaccinations — especially those who are pregnant or spend time with babies — and take steps to reduce spread. 

In 2025, as of Wednesday, OHA has received a record-high 1,475 reported cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, breaking the state’s all-time annual record of 1,420, set in 1950. The current outbreak began in the spring of 2024, when Oregon recorded 1,252 pertussis cases by year’s end. Other U.S. states have reported similar caseload spikes.

Here’s the rest of Wednesday’s OHA announcement:

Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection.

To reduce that risk, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester (weeks 27-36) to protect their newborn from pertussis. That’s because babies’ immune systems are too week to protect against infection until they get vaccinated at 2 months old.

Spouses, partners, grandparents and any adult routinely in the baby’s life should also consider receiving a Tdap dose at least two weeks before the baby is born.

However, vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it’s the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. In addition to pregnant people, pertussis vaccination is recommended for infants and children starting at 2 months through 4 to 6 years old, adolescents at age 11 or 12, and any adult who has not previously been vaccinated.

“I worry people may not fully appreciate the risk pertussis poses as case counts are rising, especially for babies and older adults,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. “One of the most important things someone can do to protect their newborn is to get the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy. Unfortunately, we’ve seen a statewide decline in maternal Tdap vaccination rates in Oregon, which is a dangerous trend.”

VIDEO: Videos of Dr. Chiou discussing Oregon’s historic pertussis spread and its impact are available at the top of OHA’s Media Resources page.

The numbers

In 2025, 87 cases of infant pertussis (children younger than 12 months)–22 of whom were hospitalized—have been reported in Oregon so far. One infant died in Oregon earlier this year. It is the only death from pertussis reported in Oregon during 2025.

OHA’s new Pregnancy Immunization Data dashboard shows only 69% of pregnant people received Tdap vaccination in 2024, down from 72% in 2020.

Maternal Tdap vaccination rates also vary widely from county to county, with rates as low as 17% and as high as 82%. The lowest rates are largely in rural counties, where it’s often harder to find vaccinations, and where vaccine hesitancy rates are also higher.

Pertussis outbreaks occur regionally about every three to five years and do not necessarily follow seasonal patterns. Because of widespread masking and social distancing during the pandemic, Oregon saw only three reported cases of pertussis in 2021, followed by 17 in 2022 and 40 in 2023.

Health officials attribute the skyrocketing cases since then to a return to pre-pandemic norms that coincides with waning immunity and decreased vaccination rates. 

Why the vaccine matters

Studies show Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is highly effective in preventing pertussis infection and hospitalization. Long-term protection from the pertussis vaccine wanes over time, however, which can create confusion about the vaccine.

“I hear the confusion in my community about pertussis vaccination,” said Benton County Health Officer Carolina Amador, M.D., MPH. “When we use the word ‘booster,’ people may think the vaccine isn’t very effective because protection fades, so they may not want to bother. At the same time, we strongly recommend it for certain people, such as children and pregnant people, because in the short term it does a great job protecting the most vulnerable among us.”

The disease

The only way a baby will become infected with pertussis is if they are exposed to someone with pertussis, a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

But pertussis often goes undiagnosed. The illness is tricky to diagnose because not everyone with pertussis will have the trademark “whooping” sound when coughing. For some, pertussis can be severe and result in a trip to the hospital, while others may experience mild symptoms and may not necessarily seek medical care while they still spread disease.

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., is a naturopathic pediatrician in Portland whose practice attracts many parents who are vaccine hesitant.

“When parents of my little patients also happen to be pregnant, they often tell me their own OBGYN has recommended the Tdap vaccine, and they will ask me, ‘But do you think it’s right for me?’ The answer is always yes,” she said. 

“I can say, ‘I’ve seen whooping cough, and its truly awful for infants,'” Gibbons added. “Then I’ll explain how the vaccine merely adds to the suite of protective antibodies that the mother is already providing the baby through the placenta. I’m always exploring ways to change my language with patients to see if I can get them to look at it differently.”

Click here to learn more about pertussis in Oregon.

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