A Central Point elder mistreatment investigation has led to animal abuse and neglect charges after police say more than 60 cats were found inside a Valley Oak Boulevard home, including several that were deceased. Investigators said hazardous conditions required officers and animal control staff to wear protective suits and respirators.

Grange Co-op and Farm Supply Company have announced a proposed merger that would create a 13-store agricultural cooperative across Oregon and California. The companies say the merger could strengthen purchasing power, improve product availability and expand offerings for farmers, ranchers, growers and rural customers.

A Williams man is facing multiple potential charges, including DUII and third-degree assault, after a quad ATV crash injured three people, including two juveniles. The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office says the case has been forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for prosecution review.

Fair season is getting closer in the Rogue Valley. The 2026 Jackson County Fair returns July 14–19 at The Expo in Central Point with opening night bull riding, four nights of headline entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors and the 4-H and FFA youth activities that remain the heart of the county fair tradition.

Fire danger on ODF-protected lands across Jackson and Josephine counties will rise to moderate Thursday, bringing new restrictions on campfires, chainsaws, mowing and other spark-producing activities. SCOFMP already lists moderate fire danger across parts of Klamath and Lake counties.

A Jacksonville man pleaded guilty to nine federal tax and fraud charges involving unpaid employment taxes, fraudulent loan applications and identity theft. He agreed to pay nearly $1.2 million in restitution to the IRS and is scheduled for sentencing Oct. 9.

Les Schwab Tire Centers has cut approximately 70 positions at its Bend headquarters as part of a corporate restructuring. The company says affected employees will receive severance and extended benefits, while the changes will help realign headquarters resources as the Oregon-founded retailer continues expanding its network of more than 600 stores.