Eugene Police Department continues to actively investigate a series of messages containing threats against Lane County Board of County Commissioners and some County staff. Additional information is being shared to elicit tips regarding the person sending these messages, with the goal of ensuring the safety of those individuals and the public.
Letters have been sent to various officials and staff threatening to harm them if an aerial herbicide spray ban measure (Freedom from Aerial Spraying of Herbicides Bill of Rights Charter Amendment) is not put on the upcoming May ballot. The person sending these messages is claiming to be a Vietnam-era veteran and has stage four cancer. It is important for anyone who has relevant information about who may be sending these letters to contact Detective Newell at 541-682-5174.
A news release was sent out February 26, 2018, from Lane County Government (see below), regarding threats to harm commissioners and staff. Since that time, there have been additional threats made.
From: Lane County Public Information [mailto:publicinformation@co.lane.or.us]
Sent: Monday, February 26, 2018 2:06 PM
To: Lane County Public Information <publicinformation@co.lane.or.us>
Subject: Law enforcement investigating threat against County officials; additional security measure planned for upcoming Board meeting
For Immediate Release 2/26/2018
Law enforcement investigating threat against County officials
Additional security measure planned for upcoming Board meeting
Eugene Police Department is currently investigating a threat of violence that was made against the Board of County Commissioners and some County staff. The threat included a mention of upcoming Board of Commissioners meetings.
Lane County wants to ensure the community is aware of the potential threat in advance of upcoming Board of Commissioners meetings.
Lane County takes seriously the safety of the public and its employees, as well as access to public meetings. In order to enhance safety during upcoming Board meetings, Lane County Sheriff’s Office deputies will be attending Board meetings. Metal detectors will be used at the entrance to Harris Hall and screening will be required for all attendees.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Newell at 541-682-5174.
No further information is available at this time. No interviews will be provided.