Joint Task Force Serves Child Sexual Abuse Material Search Warrant in Talent
The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) along with the Oregon Department of Justice’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force served a search warrant in Talent Thursday. SOCET responded after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children which led to subpoenas. After discovering Child Sexual Abuse Material images were uploaded from the residence on Taylor Street, investigators served the search warrant. They interviewed possible witnesses and involved parties, and investigations are ongoing. During the warrant, digital devices were seized which investigators are continuing to examine, as well as interviewing witnesses. No further details will be released at this time. ...Read more

MPD Responded to Report of Shots Fired, Arrested Involved Suspects
Medford Police officers responded to a report of gunshots near W 8th Street and Hamilton Street Wednesday at 9:28 p.m. A witness reported to officers that gunshots were heard in the area. The witness then saw a white pickup leaving the area. Officers located and recovered evidence consistent with shots being fired. While on the scene, a vehicle matching the description provided by the witness was observed by officers. A traffic stop was conducted and two occupants were detained. Additional individuals believed to be involved in the incident were later identified and contacted by officers. There is no indication that anyone sustained injuries during the incident. Investigators believe an altercation occurred between several individuals, and at some point during the confrontation a firearm was produced and discharged into the air. It has not yet been determined who fired the weapon. This case is under investigation, and there is no known threat to the public. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Medford Police Department’s Detective Division at 541-774-2230. ...Read more

Rate Increase and Late Fee Proposal Approved at Weekly Business Session

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners approved a Kerby Transfer Station rate increase and late fees proposed by the Planning Department during Wednesday's Weekly Business Session. The board approved a 20% rate increase at the gate, and a $1.80 curbside customer charge for Southern Oregon Sanitation's Kerby station, followed by a 3-0 motion to approve a board order regarding a quitclaim deed for the sale of Winona Road land. The Planning department requested a late fee hearing for April 1st at 9 a.m. in the Anne G. Basker Auditorium. The fees, related to the new Marijuana Annual Compliance Ordinance, would charge $250 if an application was 30 days past due, with $500 charged for 60 days past due. A motion to approve passed 3-0, with the fees taking place effective May 1st. ...Read more