Commissioner Ron Smith Absent, Mandamus Action Filed by Citizen

Commissioner Ron Smith was absent from today's meeting, leaving Commissioner Chris Barnett to conduct the meeting for informational purposes only. No quorum was present, so no business or actions could be conducted regarding Interviews or an Appointment for Josephine County Commissioner Position 1. According to a statement read by Barnett, and confirmed by a call to the Commissioner's office, a mandamus action has been filed by a citizen, seeking judicial clarity on Smith's obligations. County legal counsel declined to take part in this meeting. Barnett continued, saying if this impasse continues beyond the 30 day period following former Commissioner Andreas Blech's resignation, "judicial or other lawful remedies may need to be explored to resolve a situation that threatens the continuity of county governance." ...Read more

JoCo Sheriff's Office Looking for Missing Woman

The Josephine County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in locating a missing woman. Sarah Shaffer, 42, is 5'6" tall and 159 lbs. She has blondish brown hair but has been known to change her hair color, and her eyes are blue. Shaffer was last seen around Thanksgiving in the Selma area. If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Sarah please call the Sheriff's Office at 541-474-5123. Reference case #25-31011 ...Read more

Law Enforcement Searching for Wanted Man Following Crime Spree

Law enforcement agencies throughout Southern Oregon are searching for a man wanted in connection with multiple stolen vehicles and a high-speed pursuit that occurred Monday. The suspect, Billy Dean Gregory, 55, of O’Brien, is wanted on outstanding warrants and faces multiple charges, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle, theft, reckless driving, and attempting to elude police. Gregory is described as a white male, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 198 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen around 1:00 p.m. switching stolen vehicles in the Colver Road area of Talent. At this time, it is unknown what vehicle he may be driving. The suspect remains at large. There is no further information available for release at this time. Anyone who sees Billy Dean Gregory or has information regarding his whereabouts is urged to call 911 immediately. ...Read more