Portland police are often asked to take small amounts of evidence and piece together a crime. In some cases, the scenario is easier to recreate and police have a solid case. In other situations, the police can reach for any information they can find and try to charge someone with a crime. When the police use circumstantial evidence, it's easy for someone to be wrongly accused of committing a crime.
Four Portland residents charged with federal drug crimes
People can buy just about anything on the Internet these days -- including illegal drugs. Many people may not realize that these transactions are possible, however, federal authorities do monitor the web for illegal drug transactions. One online investigation has led to the arrest of four Portland, Oregon residents.
Marion County increases DUI patrols for holidays
The holidays are a time for joy and celebration for many Oregon families. People from all over the state get together to have fun, eat food and drink. Many of these celebration can last all day or for many days at a time. During all the fun, it is easy for people to consume too much food or drink without even noticing. While many people may feel the ill effects later in the evening, some realize too late -- after they have been pulled over on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.
Portland police arrest woman for DUI after accident on MAX tracks
Service to the MAX Yellow Line tracks had to be shut down for a few hours recently. According to police, a 38-year-old woman had been driving a Datsun pickup truck near the intersection of Interstate Avenue and North Russet Street in Portland when she crashed into a pole. While the crash itself was not extraordinary, the police claim that at the time of the accident, the woman was not on the roadways, but was on the MAX Yellow Line train tracks.
Oregon laws may not define a crime in every situation
Over the last couple decades, technology has made great leaps. Computers are smaller, phones are wireless, cameras are everywhere and it's all relatively cheap. With this technology, society has changed. People are more connected. A person's every move can be tracked and recorded by social media. Events are documented by cell phone cameras and high quality video. For many, this technology has been a welcomed change. However, some in Oregon are calling for stricter laws to protect people against the misuse of technology.
Oregon teenager faces misdemeanor charges after gunfight
There are certain situations where the Oregon criminal code has justified the use of violence. In some cases, the laws says it is ok, to use force -- even deadly force -- against another. Usually this force must be made in self-defense.
Oregon man faces felony charges for threats against roommate
From time to time, people can have too much to drink and do something they regret. In some situations, this means getting behind the wheel of a car, but other times, more serious criminal behavior can occur.
Accident with Portland police car leads to drunk driving charges
People who may have made the mistake of driving after having too much to drink generally want to avoid the police. If a police officer spots a potential drunk driver, the person can face serious penalties. However, if an accident -- or some other incident -- occurs and police are notified, charges will generally follow.
Drug dog used in Oregon marijuana bust
Oregon police use many different methods to find illegal activity. They use undercover officers, searches of cars, houses and businesses, public informants and many other methods. One common tool Oregon officers use when searching for drugs are drug dogs. These dogs are specially trained to the presence of certain illegal contraband. These dogs help officers determine who they should search for drugs or where they should start their search. Often, the use of these dogs can lead to drug charges.
Oregon creates new misdemeanor for pet owners
Oregon residents may not realize it, but the criminal code effects many aspects of day-to-day life. Many people understand that violent crimes, drug charges and other major offenses are something that are punishable under the law. However, other activities may also be regulated without their knowledge. In fact, things as simple as, how long a dog can stay tied up outside can be punished under Oregon's criminal code.
