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News Release

MEDIA INVITATION: JCSO To Unveil Oregon's First Law Enforcement Incinerator Thanks To Generous Cow Creek Tribe Donation (Photo) - 10/14/26

Update: Please RSVP if you will attend at (541) 531-8203

 

MEDIA ADVISORY:

 

JCSO to Unveil Oregon's First Law Enforcement Incinerator Thanks to Generous Cow Creek Tribe Donation; Media Invited to Ribbon Cutting

 

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – The Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) invites members of the media to a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow, Thursday, October 15, at 11:30 a.m., to unveil Oregon's first incinerator dedicated specifically to law enforcement use.

 

The new incinerator was made possible by a generous $275,000 donation from the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, at no cost to Jackson County taxpayers. The American-made equipment will provide JCSO and other law enforcement agencies with a safe, efficient way to destroy seized illegal drugs.

 

The acquisition addresses a critical need following the December 2024 closure of Oregon's only municipal incinerator, which previously served as a primary drug disposal facility for law enforcement agencies.

 

MEDIA EVENT DETAILS:

 

What: Law Enforcement Incinerator Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

When: Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

Where: 620 Antelope Road, White City, OR

 

Media are asked to arrive by 11:15 a.m., as the ceremony will begin promptly at 11:30 a.m. See attached directions.

 

Media are invited to attend for photo, video, and interview opportunities and to learn more about the equipment and its benefits to law enforcement agencies throughout the region.

Attached Media Files: incinerator_parking_Directions.jpg,

MEDIA INVITATION: JCSO To Unveil Oregon's First Law Enforcement Incinerator Thanks To Generous Cow Creek Tribe Donation (Photo) - 10/14/26

Update: Please RSVP if you will attend at (541) 531-8203

 

MEDIA ADVISORY:

 

JCSO to Unveil Oregon's First Law Enforcement Incinerator Thanks to Generous Cow Creek Tribe Donation; Media Invited to Ribbon Cutting

 

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – The Jackson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) invites members of the media to a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow, Thursday, October 15, at 11:30 a.m., to unveil Oregon's first incinerator dedicated specifically to law enforcement use.

 

The new incinerator was made possible by a generous $275,000 donation from the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, at no cost to Jackson County taxpayers. The American-made equipment will provide JCSO and other law enforcement agencies with a safe, efficient way to destroy seized illegal drugs.

 

The acquisition addresses a critical need following the December 2024 closure of Oregon's only municipal incinerator, which previously served as a primary drug disposal facility for law enforcement agencies.

 

MEDIA EVENT DETAILS:

 

What: Law Enforcement Incinerator Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

When: Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.

Where: 620 Antelope Road, White City, OR

 

Media are asked to arrive by 11:15 a.m., as the ceremony will begin promptly at 11:30 a.m. See attached directions.

 

Media are invited to attend for photo, video, and interview opportunities and to learn more about the equipment and its benefits to law enforcement agencies throughout the region.

Attached Media Files: incinerator_parking_Directions.jpg,

NEWS RELEASE FROM Emergency Communications Of Southern Oregon: ECSO 911 Announces Successful Go-Live Of County-Wide Public Safety Radio System (Photo) - 10/13/26

Important Note: This is a news release from Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon not the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. For media inquiries, contact ECSO Director Tim Doney.

Media Contact Info: 

 

Director Tim Doney

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911)

400 Pech Road, Central Point, OR 97502

(541) 774-5061

tim.doney@ecso911.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 13, 2026

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911) Announces Successful Go-Live of County-Wide Public Safety Radio System

On October 6, 2026, Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911) successfully completed the cutover and go-live of its new public safety radio system. The modern digital network is now fully

operational, providing enhanced radio communications between the ECSO 911 dispatch center and law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services personnel in the field.

 

Important clarification: This project upgrades the radio system used by dispatchers at ECSO 911 to communicate with first responders. It has no impact on the ability of citizens to call or text 911.

 

ECSO 911 serves as the primary public safety answering point (911 Center) for all of Jackson County and Crater Lake National Park. The new system’s public safety radio coverage footprint includes Jackson County and parts of Josephine, Curry, Douglas, Klamath, and Siskiyou Counties.

 

The new Project 25 (P25) Phase 2 hybrid VHF/700 MHz simulcast trunked radio system replaces a decades-old patchwork of disparate analog and digital systems that had evolved into a de facto regional network but suffered from coverage gaps, capacity limitations, interoperability challenges, and increasingly difficult

maintenance of aging equipment—some components more than 30 years old.

 

After years of planning, construction, and collaboration with our partner agencies, our first responders now have a robust, modern radio system designed to deliver reliable coverage across a wide and geographically challenging region. When seconds matter, reliable communications between dispatch and the field save lives.

Key Project Milestones

  • In 2014, Jackson County Fire District 3 was awarded a Department of Homeland Security grant that funded the initial study of public safety radio infrastructure in Jackson County, laying the critical foundation for the entire project.
  • In 2016, Federal Engineering was retained to develop a conceptual design; ECSO selected a hybrid VHF/700 MHz P25 Phase 2 solution.
  • In November 2019, Jackson County voters approved a $28 million general obligation bond with 58 percent support to fund the project.
  • ECSO contracted with Motorola Solutions in November 2020.
  • Construction of 20 radio sites (new and upgraded) began in 2023 and was completed in 2025, including solar and battery systems at remote non-powered locations.
  • Nearly 1,700–1,800 mobile and portable radios were ordered, deployed, and installed for user agencies.
  • After extensive testing and parallel operation, the system cut over to full operational status on October 6, 2026.

 

Over the course of the multi-year effort, the scope of the project expanded—at the request of user agencies—to incorporate additional new technologies and equipment that further strengthened system performance, redundancy, and long-term capability. Additional funding support from the Oregon Legislature, federal grants, partnerships with agencies such as the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon State Police, and contributions from member agencies helped complete the project.

 

ECSO extends its deepest gratitude and recognition to the citizens of Jackson County, the local Oregon legislators who championed and helped secure $2.5 million in critical state funding that made completion of this vital project possible. We also thank all of our user public safety agencies—law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services—whose partnership and commitment have been essential every step of the way; the local cities that comprise the ECSO membership; Jackson County for its leadership in carrying the voter-approved bond and ongoing support; and the ECSO Board of Directors for their steadfast guidance and dedication throughout this multi-year effort.

 

The new system delivers real-time operable and interoperable voice radio communications supporting day-to-day operations, mutual aid, and multi-agency responses across a diverse and demanding geographic footprint—from urban centers to remote mountainous terrain.

 

Ongoing coordination with fire and law enforcement agencies, as well as Jackson County Roads, Parks, and Animal Services, continues to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the system’s capabilities.

 

For more information, contact:

Director Tim Doney

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911)

400 Pech Road, Central Point, OR 97502

(541) 774-5061

tim.doney@ecso911.com www.ecso911.com

Attached Media Files: Ashland_Acres_Shelter.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_1.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_2.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_3.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_4.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_5.jpg, Fire_Station_54.jpg, Fire_Station_54_Tower_Assembly.jpg, IMG_20251020_155626_1.jpg, IMG_20251023_151856_1.jpg, Smith_Tower.jpg,

NEWS RELEASE FROM Emergency Communications Of Southern Oregon: ECSO 911 Announces Successful Go-Live Of County-Wide Public Safety Radio System (Photo) - 10/13/26

Important Note: This is a news release from Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon not the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. For media inquiries, contact ECSO Director Tim Doney.

Media Contact Info: 

 

Director Tim Doney

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911)

400 Pech Road, Central Point, OR 97502

(541) 774-5061

tim.doney@ecso911.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 13, 2026

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911) Announces Successful Go-Live of County-Wide Public Safety Radio System

On October 6, 2026, Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911) successfully completed the cutover and go-live of its new public safety radio system. The modern digital network is now fully

operational, providing enhanced radio communications between the ECSO 911 dispatch center and law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services personnel in the field.

 

Important clarification: This project upgrades the radio system used by dispatchers at ECSO 911 to communicate with first responders. It has no impact on the ability of citizens to call or text 911.

 

ECSO 911 serves as the primary public safety answering point (911 Center) for all of Jackson County and Crater Lake National Park. The new system’s public safety radio coverage footprint includes Jackson County and parts of Josephine, Curry, Douglas, Klamath, and Siskiyou Counties.

 

The new Project 25 (P25) Phase 2 hybrid VHF/700 MHz simulcast trunked radio system replaces a decades-old patchwork of disparate analog and digital systems that had evolved into a de facto regional network but suffered from coverage gaps, capacity limitations, interoperability challenges, and increasingly difficult

maintenance of aging equipment—some components more than 30 years old.

 

After years of planning, construction, and collaboration with our partner agencies, our first responders now have a robust, modern radio system designed to deliver reliable coverage across a wide and geographically challenging region. When seconds matter, reliable communications between dispatch and the field save lives.

Key Project Milestones

  • In 2014, Jackson County Fire District 3 was awarded a Department of Homeland Security grant that funded the initial study of public safety radio infrastructure in Jackson County, laying the critical foundation for the entire project.
  • In 2016, Federal Engineering was retained to develop a conceptual design; ECSO selected a hybrid VHF/700 MHz P25 Phase 2 solution.
  • In November 2019, Jackson County voters approved a $28 million general obligation bond with 58 percent support to fund the project.
  • ECSO contracted with Motorola Solutions in November 2020.
  • Construction of 20 radio sites (new and upgraded) began in 2023 and was completed in 2025, including solar and battery systems at remote non-powered locations.
  • Nearly 1,700–1,800 mobile and portable radios were ordered, deployed, and installed for user agencies.
  • After extensive testing and parallel operation, the system cut over to full operational status on October 6, 2026.

 

Over the course of the multi-year effort, the scope of the project expanded—at the request of user agencies—to incorporate additional new technologies and equipment that further strengthened system performance, redundancy, and long-term capability. Additional funding support from the Oregon Legislature, federal grants, partnerships with agencies such as the Oregon Department of Transportation and Oregon State Police, and contributions from member agencies helped complete the project.

 

ECSO extends its deepest gratitude and recognition to the citizens of Jackson County, the local Oregon legislators who championed and helped secure $2.5 million in critical state funding that made completion of this vital project possible. We also thank all of our user public safety agencies—law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services—whose partnership and commitment have been essential every step of the way; the local cities that comprise the ECSO membership; Jackson County for its leadership in carrying the voter-approved bond and ongoing support; and the ECSO Board of Directors for their steadfast guidance and dedication throughout this multi-year effort.

 

The new system delivers real-time operable and interoperable voice radio communications supporting day-to-day operations, mutual aid, and multi-agency responses across a diverse and demanding geographic footprint—from urban centers to remote mountainous terrain.

 

Ongoing coordination with fire and law enforcement agencies, as well as Jackson County Roads, Parks, and Animal Services, continues to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the system’s capabilities.

 

For more information, contact:

Director Tim Doney

Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO 911)

400 Pech Road, Central Point, OR 97502

(541) 774-5061

tim.doney@ecso911.com www.ecso911.com

Attached Media Files: Ashland_Acres_Shelter.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_1.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_2.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_3.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_4.jpg, ECSO_Dispatcher_5.jpg, Fire_Station_54.jpg, Fire_Station_54_Tower_Assembly.jpg, IMG_20251020_155626_1.jpg, IMG_20251023_151856_1.jpg, Smith_Tower.jpg,

Jackson County, Get Ready For The Great ShakeOut On 10/15 At 10:15 AM And Jackson AlertsTest - 10/07/26

MEDIA ADVISORY ON BEHALF OF JACKSON COUNTY

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 7, 2026

 

CONTACTS FOR MEDIA ONLY: Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager
(541) 774-6790. jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov

 

 

Jackson County, Get Ready for the Great ShakeOut

 on 10/15 at 10:15 AM

and Jackson AlertsTest

Thursday - October 15, 2026

 

JACKSON COUNTY, OREGON — FIRST RELEASE

 

Jackson County, Oregon — Get ready for 10/15 at 10:15 am for the Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest earthquake drill. Join millions of individuals throughout Oregon and across the globe as they practice Drop, Cover and Hold On. This annual event provides an opportunity for people in homes, schools, and businesses to assess their disaster preparedness, improve their emergency safety plans, and practice what to do in the event of a real earthquake. For more information and resources to plan your drill, visit shakeout.org/Oregon. Remember: shake out, don’t freak out!

 

Completing a few small tasks ahead of time, such as assembling a basic emergency supply kit and determining your shelter strategy, makes sure that you and your family will know what to do and have the supplies you need to be safe wherever you are. For more preparedness resources and tips, visit ready.gov.   

 

In conjunction with the Great ShakeOut, Jackson County will be conducting a test of the Jackson Alerts notification system. This service provides critical information quickly for a variety of emergency situations.

 

To raise awareness and educate the public on disaster preparedness, residents registered with Jackson Alerts will receive a test alert through all listed delivery methods—call, text, and email—between 10 am and 2 pm. It is vital to be prepared. Register, update your Jackson Alerts account, and/or find more information at jacksoncountyor.gov/alerts.

 

Media contact: Delaney Richmond at jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov

Jackson County, Get Ready For The Great ShakeOut On 10/15 At 10:15 AM And Jackson AlertsTest - 10/07/26

MEDIA ADVISORY ON BEHALF OF JACKSON COUNTY

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 7, 2026

 

CONTACTS FOR MEDIA ONLY: Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager
(541) 774-6790. jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov

 

 

Jackson County, Get Ready for the Great ShakeOut

 on 10/15 at 10:15 AM

and Jackson AlertsTest

Thursday - October 15, 2026

 

JACKSON COUNTY, OREGON — FIRST RELEASE

 

Jackson County, Oregon — Get ready for 10/15 at 10:15 am for the Great ShakeOut, the world’s largest earthquake drill. Join millions of individuals throughout Oregon and across the globe as they practice Drop, Cover and Hold On. This annual event provides an opportunity for people in homes, schools, and businesses to assess their disaster preparedness, improve their emergency safety plans, and practice what to do in the event of a real earthquake. For more information and resources to plan your drill, visit shakeout.org/Oregon. Remember: shake out, don’t freak out!

 

Completing a few small tasks ahead of time, such as assembling a basic emergency supply kit and determining your shelter strategy, makes sure that you and your family will know what to do and have the supplies you need to be safe wherever you are. For more preparedness resources and tips, visit ready.gov.   

 

In conjunction with the Great ShakeOut, Jackson County will be conducting a test of the Jackson Alerts notification system. This service provides critical information quickly for a variety of emergency situations.

 

To raise awareness and educate the public on disaster preparedness, residents registered with Jackson Alerts will receive a test alert through all listed delivery methods—call, text, and email—between 10 am and 2 pm. It is vital to be prepared. Register, update your Jackson Alerts account, and/or find more information at jacksoncountyor.gov/alerts.

 

Media contact: Delaney Richmond at jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov

Chronic Elude Suspect Arrested; Search Warrants Reveal Loaded Firearm, Large Quantities Fentanyl, Heroin, Meth, Drug Dealing Supplies (Photo) - 09/29/26

JCSO Case 26-4161, CPPD Case 26-5423

 

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. - A drug dealer is in jail after multiple attempted eludes throughout Jackson County. The suspect, Ismael Garcia-Nava Jr., 32, of Medford, is lodged in the Jackson County Jail after crashing on September 19 while attempting to elude Central Point Police Department (CPPD). Garcia-Nava was originally arrested August 12 after crashing during an attempted elude with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). Due to jail overcrowding he was force released on August 22 before a search uncovered the drugs and firearm in his vehicle.

 

Multiple search warrants revealed more than 100g of fentanyl, nearly 400g of heroin, 28g of methamphetamines, scales, packaging material, and a loaded firearm. Garcia-Nava’s charges include unlawful possession, manufacture, and delivery of controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm, multiple counts of elude, and reckless driving.

 

On August 12, JCSO deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. The vehicle eluded into an industrial area, where the deputy lost sight of it. Medford Police Department (MPD) officers located the vehicle and it continued to elude, ultimately crashing on Elk Street in Medford.

 

MPD assisted JCSO in establishing a perimeter and deploying a drone. The driver, Garcia-Nava, was spotted fleeing on foot and jumping fences within the perimeter and taken into custody without further incident. Garcia-Nava was found to have an active warrant for an unlawful delivery of heroin parole violation. He was lodged at jail and his vehicle was taken under a seizure warrant for further investigation.

 

On August 23, JCSO deputies executed a search warrant on the suspect’s vehicle and located 41g of fentanyl, 26g of methamphetamine, 93g of marijuana, packaging, a digital scale, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun. JCSO filed the additional charges and entered a warrant for Garcia-Nava’s arrest.

 

On September 19, Garcia-Nava attempted to elude a CPPD traffic stop near Hanley Road and West Pine Street in Central Point.  After the pursuit was terminated, Garcia-Nava continued to drive recklessly through heavy traffic before crashing at the corner of North Front Street and Laurel Street. Garcia-Nava continued to elude on foot, discarding a shoulder bag before CPPD arrested him without incident.

 

On September 24, a search warrant was granted to search the discarded shoulder bag. Upon searching, CPPD officers located 396g of heroin, 64g of fentanyl, and 2.5g of meth as well as a digital scale, and drug packaging.

 

This case remains open. There is no further information available for release at this time.

 

###

Attached Media Files: Drugs.jpg, Gun.jpg, Gun_Drugs.jpg, Gun_Drugs_Arrest.jpg, Arrest.jpg,

Chronic Elude Suspect Arrested; Search Warrants Reveal Loaded Firearm, Large Quantities Fentanyl, Heroin, Meth, Drug Dealing Supplies (Photo) - 09/29/26

JCSO Case 26-4161, CPPD Case 26-5423

 

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. - A drug dealer is in jail after multiple attempted eludes throughout Jackson County. The suspect, Ismael Garcia-Nava Jr., 32, of Medford, is lodged in the Jackson County Jail after crashing on September 19 while attempting to elude Central Point Police Department (CPPD). Garcia-Nava was originally arrested August 12 after crashing during an attempted elude with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). Due to jail overcrowding he was force released on August 22 before a search uncovered the drugs and firearm in his vehicle.

 

Multiple search warrants revealed more than 100g of fentanyl, nearly 400g of heroin, 28g of methamphetamines, scales, packaging material, and a loaded firearm. Garcia-Nava’s charges include unlawful possession, manufacture, and delivery of controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm, multiple counts of elude, and reckless driving.

 

On August 12, JCSO deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. The vehicle eluded into an industrial area, where the deputy lost sight of it. Medford Police Department (MPD) officers located the vehicle and it continued to elude, ultimately crashing on Elk Street in Medford.

 

MPD assisted JCSO in establishing a perimeter and deploying a drone. The driver, Garcia-Nava, was spotted fleeing on foot and jumping fences within the perimeter and taken into custody without further incident. Garcia-Nava was found to have an active warrant for an unlawful delivery of heroin parole violation. He was lodged at jail and his vehicle was taken under a seizure warrant for further investigation.

 

On August 23, JCSO deputies executed a search warrant on the suspect’s vehicle and located 41g of fentanyl, 26g of methamphetamine, 93g of marijuana, packaging, a digital scale, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun. JCSO filed the additional charges and entered a warrant for Garcia-Nava’s arrest.

 

On September 19, Garcia-Nava attempted to elude a CPPD traffic stop near Hanley Road and West Pine Street in Central Point.  After the pursuit was terminated, Garcia-Nava continued to drive recklessly through heavy traffic before crashing at the corner of North Front Street and Laurel Street. Garcia-Nava continued to elude on foot, discarding a shoulder bag before CPPD arrested him without incident.

 

On September 24, a search warrant was granted to search the discarded shoulder bag. Upon searching, CPPD officers located 396g of heroin, 64g of fentanyl, and 2.5g of meth as well as a digital scale, and drug packaging.

 

This case remains open. There is no further information available for release at this time.

 

###

Attached Media Files: Drugs.jpg, Gun.jpg, Gun_Drugs.jpg, Gun_Drugs_Arrest.jpg, Arrest.jpg,

Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community To Get “Winter Ready” At Free Safety & Preparedness Fair (Photo) - 09/24/26

Sent for Jackson County Emergency Management, media contact info below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community to Get “Winter Ready” at Free Safety & Preparedness Fair

Free, family-friendly event will feature emergency equipment, activities, giveaways, and practical ways to prepare for winter storms and other emergencies.

 

Central Point, Ore. — Jackson County Emergency Management (JCEM) invites community members of all ages to Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids on Saturday, November 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Mace Watchable Wildlife Center at the Jackson County Expo, 21 Peninger Road in Central Point.

The event is free and open to the public.

Following an active wildfire season across Southern Oregon, Winter Ready shifts the focus toward the hazards that come with the colder months. Emergency responders, nonprofits, and community partners will come together for a hands-on event designed to help families prepare for winter storms, flooding, power outages, evacuations, and other emergencies.

“As wildfire season winds down, our preparedness work doesn’t stop,” said Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager. “Winter brings a different set of hazards to Jackson County, and this event is about helping families understand those risks and take practical steps to prepare.”

Attendees can expect:

​

  • Touch-a-Truck emergency equipment displays
  • Live preparedness demonstrations
  • Opportunities to meet local first responders
  • Practical information about flooding and winter storms
  • Games and activities for kids and families
  • Giveaways and preparedness resources

“Disasters can look very different from season to season,” said Jackson County Emergency Manager Delaney Richmond, “Knowing what you’ll do during an outage, having supplies ready, understanding local hazards, and knowing where to get reliable information can make a real difference when a storm hits.”

Event Details

Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids
Saturday, November 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mace Watchable Wildlife Center
Jackson County Expo
21 Peninger Road
Central Point, OR 97502

Admission: FREE

Jackson County Emergency Management is producing the event with support from Rogue Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (RV COAD) and participating community partners.

Media Contact

Delaney Richmond
Jackson County Emergency Management
Emergency Manager
jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov
541-774-6790

Attached Media Files: JCEM_Fair_Flyer.jpg,

Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community To Get “Winter Ready” At Free Safety & Preparedness Fair (Photo) - 09/24/26

Sent for Jackson County Emergency Management, media contact info below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Jackson County Emergency Management Invites Community to Get “Winter Ready” at Free Safety & Preparedness Fair

Free, family-friendly event will feature emergency equipment, activities, giveaways, and practical ways to prepare for winter storms and other emergencies.

 

Central Point, Ore. — Jackson County Emergency Management (JCEM) invites community members of all ages to Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids on Saturday, November 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Mace Watchable Wildlife Center at the Jackson County Expo, 21 Peninger Road in Central Point.

The event is free and open to the public.

Following an active wildfire season across Southern Oregon, Winter Ready shifts the focus toward the hazards that come with the colder months. Emergency responders, nonprofits, and community partners will come together for a hands-on event designed to help families prepare for winter storms, flooding, power outages, evacuations, and other emergencies.

“As wildfire season winds down, our preparedness work doesn’t stop,” said Delaney Richmond, Jackson County Emergency Manager. “Winter brings a different set of hazards to Jackson County, and this event is about helping families understand those risks and take practical steps to prepare.”

Attendees can expect:

​

  • Touch-a-Truck emergency equipment displays
  • Live preparedness demonstrations
  • Opportunities to meet local first responders
  • Practical information about flooding and winter storms
  • Games and activities for kids and families
  • Giveaways and preparedness resources

“Disasters can look very different from season to season,” said Jackson County Emergency Manager Delaney Richmond, “Knowing what you’ll do during an outage, having supplies ready, understanding local hazards, and knowing where to get reliable information can make a real difference when a storm hits.”

Event Details

Winter Ready: A Safety & Preparedness Fair for Families & Kids
Saturday, November 7, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Mace Watchable Wildlife Center
Jackson County Expo
21 Peninger Road
Central Point, OR 97502

Admission: FREE

Jackson County Emergency Management is producing the event with support from Rogue Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (RV COAD) and participating community partners.

Media Contact

Delaney Richmond
Jackson County Emergency Management
Emergency Manager
jacksonem@jacksoncountyor.gov
541-774-6790

Attached Media Files: JCEM_Fair_Flyer.jpg,

Coordinated Law Enforcement Operation In Southern Oregon - 09/23/26

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and multiple local, state, and federal law enforcement partners conducted a coordinated law enforcement operation on a drug trafficking organization, September 23rd in Jackson County. This operation involved the simultaneous service of multiple search warrants.

 

The public may have noticed an increased law enforcement presence, including police tactical vehicles in several areas while these operations were underway. This included a helicopter in the area of West Main Street and Hanley Road that was part of a federal search warrant. The increased police presence included residences and businesses in Medford, Central Point, Eagle Point, Rogue River, and Jacksonville. There is no known ongoing threat to the general public. Please continue to avoid the properties while law enforcement personnel secure each scene and investigate.

 

This is an active and ongoing operation. Due to the nature of the investigation, specific details regarding the approximate locations, individuals involved, and circumstances leading to the warrants are not being released at this time. Additional information will be released when appropriate.

 

We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation while law enforcement personnel complete these operations.

 

###

Coordinated Law Enforcement Operation In Southern Oregon - 09/23/26

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and multiple local, state, and federal law enforcement partners conducted a coordinated law enforcement operation on a drug trafficking organization, September 23rd in Jackson County. This operation involved the simultaneous service of multiple search warrants.

 

The public may have noticed an increased law enforcement presence, including police tactical vehicles in several areas while these operations were underway. This included a helicopter in the area of West Main Street and Hanley Road that was part of a federal search warrant. The increased police presence included residences and businesses in Medford, Central Point, Eagle Point, Rogue River, and Jacksonville. There is no known ongoing threat to the general public. Please continue to avoid the properties while law enforcement personnel secure each scene and investigate.

 

This is an active and ongoing operation. Due to the nature of the investigation, specific details regarding the approximate locations, individuals involved, and circumstances leading to the warrants are not being released at this time. Additional information will be released when appropriate.

 

We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation while law enforcement personnel complete these operations.

 

###

Teen Arrested For Criminally Negligent Homicide After Rollover Car Crash Kills Passenger, Sparks East Evans Creek Fire (Photo) - 09/22/26

JCSO Case 26-3535

 

ROGUE RIVER, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a 17-year-old driver Friday, September 18 following a vehicle crash that killed his passenger and sparked the 15,000-acre East Evans Creek Fire. The 18-year-old male passenger in the involved 2002 Ford Ranger died July 18 at a local hospital from injuries sustained in the crash.

 

The suspect, a 17-year-old male, is charged with criminally negligent homicide, reckless driving, and second-degree criminal mischief. JCSO deputies lodged the suspect in the Jackson County Juvenile Detention facility. In accordance with Oregon law, we are not releasing the driver's name because he is a juvenile.

 

Friday, July 10 at 2:39 PM, ECSO dispatch received a call for a rollover motor vehicle crash in the 18,000 block of East Evans Creek Road in rural Rogue River. An Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Type 6 engine with a two-person crew was on patrol in the area and was on scene within approximately 30 seconds. The crew rendered aid, while simultaneously engaging in suppression efforts on the fire. They immediately ordered additional air and ground resources from ODF dispatch, initiating a full response to the incident. Within minutes the fire had spread to dry vegetation in the area leading to evacuation of nearby residences and eventually growing to more than 15,000 acres.

 

Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team investigators responded to the scene shortly after the crash. The preliminary investigation determined the suspect’s truck left a nearby licensed cannabis production location at a high rate of speed before crashing into the power pole. Investigators also determined the driver did not have a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash.  Analysis of physical and digital evidence was completed last week, which confirmed speed was the primary contributing factor in the crash.

 

The STAR Team is a specialized unit dedicated to investigating fatal and complex serious injury collisions. The team operates through a collaborative interagency agreement between JCSO, Medford Police Department, Ashland Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

 

This case remains under investigation. The victim’s name will not be released at this time. Any further information will be released by the District Attorney’s Office.

 

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Attached Media Files: E_Evans_Fire.jpg, Fatal_crash.jpg, fatal_crash_1.jpg, fatal_crash_2.jpg, Fatl_crash_response_1.jpg, STAR_Investigators_1.jpg, STAR_Investigators_2.jpg, STAR_Investigators_3.jpg,

Teen Arrested For Criminally Negligent Homicide After Rollover Car Crash Kills Passenger, Sparks East Evans Creek Fire (Photo) - 09/22/26

JCSO Case 26-3535

 

ROGUE RIVER, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a 17-year-old driver Friday, September 18 following a vehicle crash that killed his passenger and sparked the 15,000-acre East Evans Creek Fire. The 18-year-old male passenger in the involved 2002 Ford Ranger died July 18 at a local hospital from injuries sustained in the crash.

 

The suspect, a 17-year-old male, is charged with criminally negligent homicide, reckless driving, and second-degree criminal mischief. JCSO deputies lodged the suspect in the Jackson County Juvenile Detention facility. In accordance with Oregon law, we are not releasing the driver's name because he is a juvenile.

 

Friday, July 10 at 2:39 PM, ECSO dispatch received a call for a rollover motor vehicle crash in the 18,000 block of East Evans Creek Road in rural Rogue River. An Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Type 6 engine with a two-person crew was on patrol in the area and was on scene within approximately 30 seconds. The crew rendered aid, while simultaneously engaging in suppression efforts on the fire. They immediately ordered additional air and ground resources from ODF dispatch, initiating a full response to the incident. Within minutes the fire had spread to dry vegetation in the area leading to evacuation of nearby residences and eventually growing to more than 15,000 acres.

 

Jackson County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team investigators responded to the scene shortly after the crash. The preliminary investigation determined the suspect’s truck left a nearby licensed cannabis production location at a high rate of speed before crashing into the power pole. Investigators also determined the driver did not have a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash.  Analysis of physical and digital evidence was completed last week, which confirmed speed was the primary contributing factor in the crash.

 

The STAR Team is a specialized unit dedicated to investigating fatal and complex serious injury collisions. The team operates through a collaborative interagency agreement between JCSO, Medford Police Department, Ashland Police Department, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

 

This case remains under investigation. The victim’s name will not be released at this time. Any further information will be released by the District Attorney’s Office.

 

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Attached Media Files: E_Evans_Fire.jpg, Fatal_crash.jpg, fatal_crash_1.jpg, fatal_crash_2.jpg, Fatl_crash_response_1.jpg, STAR_Investigators_1.jpg, STAR_Investigators_2.jpg, STAR_Investigators_3.jpg,