Wasco County DA Announces Policy To Not Pursue Monetary Sanctions; Minimize Consequences of Court Debt
The Wasco County District Attorney's office will no longer seek “harmful” and “discriminatory” monetary sanctions such as court fees, and fines, and will work to minimize the collateral consequences of legal system involvement.
Senate Bill 819 Gives Second Chance to People with Felony Sentences and Convictions in Wasco County
Oregonians convicted of felonies will be able to legally petition for reconsideration of their sentence and convictions on January 1st, 2022 when Senate Bill 819 goes into effect. The enactment of the law is considered a huge win for those looking for a second chance at sentencing and at full reintegration into their communities. Wasco County District Attorney Matt Ellis has created a special hearing docket scheduled for January 6th, 2022 at 8:30 AM to hear the first round of petitions from Wasco County community members. The hearing will be presided over by Wasco County Circuit Judge Janet Stauffer.
The New Face of Crime Victims Assistance in Wasco County
This week as a part of the Wasco County DA’s Office moved its Crime Victim’s Advocacy services into its own office. James Barber, Victims Advocate Coordinator, said the move is a part of the Office’s plan to create a more welcoming, safe, and accessible space for victims of crimes to seek counsel and advocacy.