Commissioner Smith Absent from Scheduled Workshop, Mandamus Before Court
Commissioner Ron Smith was absent for Wednesday's Administrative Workshop at 1:30 p.m. County Legal counsel did not participate in the meeting. No quorum was present, so no business could proceed. In a statement, Commissioner Chris Barnett said "a mandamus action has been filed by a private citizen seeking judicial direction on how this situation must be resolved after a 30 day deadline." Because the matter regarding Smith's obligations as Commissioner is before the court, no further comments were made on it. Barnett continued, saying the appointment process will be looked at with the courts. That proceeding is pending. The meeting was adjourned at 1:33 p.m.
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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
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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.
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