Priorities

House Bill 4002 (Measure 110 Reform)

We have all witnessed the devastating effects of Oregon's 2020 drug decriminalization experiment. Drug use and dealing, overdose deaths, homelessness, and crime have all ballooned over the past three and a half years. Our community needs a steady hand to guide us through long-awaited drug recriminalization. I know how often repeat offenders go unprosecuted and are released back into our community. I will work to ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions to make our community safer. 

I pushed for Measure 110 reform and was proud to see our legislature take the necessary steps to make drug possession a crime again. As this law takes effect, I will prioritize cases of drug trafficking and open-air drug use and ensure they result in swift penalties and meaningful consequences. Recriminalization will require more supervision and treatment to ensure accountability and help restore health and safety in our region. I will immediately implement a Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program, which is an evidence-based way to get people into treatment and avoid further overcrowding in our jail. My experience working with treatment agencies gives me insight into how best to implement appropriate programs to ensure accountability and rehabilitation. 

Accountability

The District Attorney works directly with law enforcement to convict people of the crimes for which they were arrested and has the authority to proceed with formal charges or dismiss cases. I'm committed to supporting law enforcement's efforts to make our community safer by following through with the cases they bring to my office, not dismissing crimes some might deem low-level or unimportant.

I am committed to supporting law enforcement's efforts to make our community safer by following through with the cases they bring to my office, not dismissing crimes some might deem low-level or unimportant. Our law enforcement agencies have an incredible track record of working together to investigate and arrest those who seek to damage and harm, and I look forward to partnering with them to keep dangerous criminals out of our community. 

Homelessness

My professional experience has made it clear that mental health and homelessness go hand-in-hand. People struggling with poor mental health often turn to hard drugs to self-medicate, which only worsens existing problems. As District Attorney, I will emphasize the use of drug and mental health courts to address one of the root causes of crime in our community. I have the relationships with law enforcement, judges, county commissioners, state legislators, and treatment centers to improve access to treatment, housing, and mental health services.

Safe Neighborhoods 

Burglary, squatting, and car & retail theft have increased alongside other quality-of-life crimes as Oregon has gained an international reputation as a safe haven for drug access and homelessness. When bad actors prey upon southern Oregon's hospitality, our entire community suffers. 

While I support the use of drug and mental health courts when appropriate, I do not advocate for leniency in applying the law. Given the increasing numbers of repeat offenders in Jackson County, prosecuting crimes of all types and severity must remain our priority.