Homeland Security, SOCET Serve Warrant in Medford CSAM Investigation

Homeland Security Investigations along with the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team served a federal search warrant Wednesday morning in Medford. Investigators served the warrant after Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) was purchased from a “Darknet” CSAM website. On scene, investigators interviewed potential witnesses and involved parties. Investigators are working to identify the suspect and refer criminal charges to the United States Attorney’s Office. Federal, State, and local law enforcement served the warrant at a residence in the 3000 block of Marilee Street in Medford. German investigators identified the potential Medford area suspect. During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force for further evidence of child exploitation. Investigators continue to examine seized devices and interview witnesses as the investigation moves forward. No further details will be released at this time. ...Read more

Fire Danger Decreased To High in Jackson, Josephine Counties

Following recent light rainfall and a trend of cooler temperatures, including continued lower overnight temperatures, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District in Jackson and Josephine counties is decreasing from “extreme” to “high” effective immediately. According to ODF, the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is also decreasing from Level 3 to Level 2. The recent change in weather has helped ease fire conditions across the district. However, fire season remains in effect, and restrictions remain in place, including the prohibition on outdoor debris burning. Vegetation can dry quickly following rainfall, and fires remain very possible. The public is asked to continue following all current fire prevention regulations and use caution when working outdoors. The primary difference between current fire prevention restrictions and the updated restrictions affects the public use of power-driven equipment, such as chainsaws, mowers, weed eaters and more. ...Read more

UPDATE: Armed Robbery Investigation Leads to Vehicle Pursuit, Suspects in Custody

Medford Police officers responded around 8:45 p.m. Sunday to a reported armed robbery at the West Main Street Walgreens. The suspects have been identified and lodged. Store employees confronted a male and female who were attempting to leave the store with a shopping cart full of unpaid merchandise. During the confrontation, the female suspect reportedly produced a handgun, pointed it at an employee, and threatened to shoot. The suspects left the area in a white SUV with a black roof rack. Responding officers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects or vehicle. Store security footage corroborated employee statements, and investigators obtained video and still images of the suspects and involved vehicle. Tuesday at approximately 12:30 p.m., an officer located the vehicle near Sage Road and Highway 238. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver fled at a high rate of speed. Officers initiated a pursuit. The vehicle traveled through several areas before entering Interstate 5 northbound. Police were assisted by the Oregon State Police and the Jackson County Sheriff's Department. ...Read more