HR Director Allegations Discussed at Requested BCC Public Meeting

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners discussed allegations against Human Resources Director Michelle Shaw in a public meeting following a brief Executive Session. Commissioner Ron Smith was absent due to a pre-planned appointment. The 3 p.m. session, a due process hearing to consider the dismissal or discipline of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against the Human Resources Director, was held in the BCC Conference Room. The board reconvened for a public meeting per request of Director Shaw to go over performance concerns. The concerns and essential job functions were discussed, followed by allegations regarding paid leave investigations, as well as errors in communicating personnel policies and compensation of employment related information. Further discussion included alleged assignments and responsibilities not completed in a timely manner resulting in delays, and confidential medical information that may have been improperly distributed. Reported delegation was brought up as an issue. The discussion will be taken into further consideration. ...Read more

JoCo Sheriff's Office Seeking Public's Help in Finding Missing Woman

The Josephine County Sheriff's Office is searching for a missing woman. Deputies received a report that Desiree Wytcherley was last seen on June 11th, 2026 in the Wilderville area. She is described as a white 5'11" woman with brown hair, blue eyes, and weighing about 145 lbs. She is known to frequent the Wilderville Store and surrounding Redwood Highway areas. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Desiree are encouraged to call the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office at 541-474-5123. Reference Case #26-18307. ...Read more

Code 4 Fundraiser "Brews for Craven" Raises $21,500 for Recovering Officer and Family

The Code 4 Tap House fundraiser Brews for Craven, in support of Grants Pass Police Officer Jeffrey Craven in his battle with cancer, raised about $21,500 in support of him and his family. The event was held July 1st starting at 5 p.m. A call to the business showed that over the course of four hours, with 100% of tips and 50% of sales, plus a match from Oregon Ice, the tap house was able to raise the funds to support the Craven family. As of this report, Officer Craven's GoFundMe page has raised about $41,130, 92% of the way to the $45K goal. The community can visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-jeff-cravens-fight-for-recovery to further support his fight for recovery. ...Read more