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In cases where the victim has asked to be notified, they will be contacted by phone (during business hours) or by mail. Victims are also encouraged to register with the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) network to receive automated notifications via email, text, or phone call. Once they are signed up, they can also check custody status information online at any time. Victims who have concerns about case notifications can call the Washington County Victim Assistance line at 503-846-8314.
Additional mental health treatment facilities, including secure residential treatment facilities, are urgently needed to provide services to defendants charged with serious and violent crimes who are released from the Oregon State Hospital before they are able to assist in their own defense. Funding for workforce expansion is also critical to ensure we have enough highly trained staff to do this important work.
Oregon’s long history of underfunding our behavioral health system has contributed to this crisis. We need a significant investment of state and federal resources for system expansion and coordination of care. This would help to address a wide range of mental health needs across the community and improve health and safety for all.
The number varies by month but currently there are approximately 40 people who are unable to assist in their own defense and are receiving restorative services at the Oregon State Hospital.
Washington County has joined several other local jurisdictions to provide additional perspectives on Judge Mosman’s order. A hearing was held in January 2023 to review the order, however Judge Mosman declined to revoke his original order at that time. Another hearing is scheduled to take place in April 2023.
Jail facilities and systems are not designed or staffed to provide the type of care needed by these individuals. Also, according to mental health experts, staying in the jail could cause their condition to deteriorate. Even if the Washington County Jail were an appropriate place, funding would be needed for more staff, including deputies and mental health care providers.
Additionally, the Washington County Jail is operating at reduced capacity due to staffing shortages. To make room for people returned from the Oregon State Hospital, some other people in custody who are awaiting trial may have to be released early. These “forced releases” could put community safety at risk. It is also possible that some of those released early would not show up for future court proceedings.
The court will carefully weigh all factors, including available treatment or restoration options. The Mosman order makes clear that returning defendants may not be sent back to the Oregon State Hospital, except for very limited circumstances. Depending on a defendant’s individual case, the judge could decide to send a defendant to a secure residential treatment facility or the Washington County Jail to receive restoration services. Also, if the District Attorney believes that the person meets the criteria of an “extremely dangerous person,” they can file a petition with the court for civil commitment as an Extremely Dangerous Person.
