Grants Pass Tribune - Sun. June 23, 2024

U.S. Treasury Secretary Yellen announces sanctions against Mexican drug cartel

By: Uli Sweet

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced new sanctions on Thursday targeting members of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana drug cartel. The sanctions aim to disrupt the cartel's trafficking operations involving fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and migrants across the U.S.-Mexico border.

Eight members of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana cartel, a group known for its violent tactics and territorial battles with other Mexican cartels, are included in the sanctions. This action is part of the Biden administration's broader strategy to combat the import of illegal drugs into the United States.

In her announcement, Yellen also issued an advisory to financial institutions, urging them to be vigilant in identifying and reporting suspicious transactions related to the purchase and sale of chemicals and equipment used in the production of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids. The advisory is intended to bolster efforts to detect and prevent the illicit manufacture of these dangerous substances.

La Nueva Familia Michoacana is notorious for its role in manufacturing and distributing drugs such as fentanyl and methamphetamine. The cartel has also expanded into the lucrative migrant smuggling industry, capitalizing on the increased migration flow to the United States. The Treasury Department's move to sanction these cartel members is aimed at disrupting their financial networks and curbing their illegal activities.

Grants pass nursing home employee arrested for alleged sexual abuse

Grants Pass Police Department

On June 16, 2024, the Grants Pass Police Department received a report of sexual abuse involving a patient and an employee at a local nursing home. Following this report, an investigation by the Major Crimes Unit, in collaboration with the nursing home management, identified the suspect as Michael Anthony Lee, a 28-year-old resident of Medford, Oregon. Lee, who is 6 feet tall and weighs approximately 220 pounds, with red hair and green eyes, had been working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in both Grants Pass and Medford over the past three years.

Detectives concluded that Lee had allegedly targeted both female and male elderly victims for sexual assault. Given the nature of the allegations, it is anticipated that additional victims may yet be identified.

On June 20, 2024, Michael Lee was arrested at his current workplace in Grants Pass. He was charged with two counts of Sex Abuse in the First Degree and two counts of Attempted Sex Abuse in the First Degree. Lee is currently lodged at the Josephine County Jail.

The Grants Pass Police Department is seeking assistance in identifying any additional victims. Anyone with information regarding the criminal acts or the identity of potential additional victims is encouraged to contact the Grants Pass Police Detectives at 541-450-6260, referencing case #24-22321. The department remains committed to thoroughly investigating all reports of sexual abuse.

The Biden administration previously targeted the cartel's leaders, known as the Hurtado brothers, in 2022. The leaders were sanctioned for their involvement in producing "rainbow" fentanyl pills, which the Treasury Department described as a deliberate attempt to increase addiction among children.

This announcement by Yellen follows the recent signing of the FEND Off Fentanyl Act by President Joe Biden in April. This legislation, part of a supplemental spending package, officially declares the international trafficking of fentanyl a national emergency. The act aims to enhance the govern-

ment's ability to combat the trafficking and distribution of this deadly drug.

Yellen's trip and the subsequent announcement of these sanctions underscore the administration's commitment to addressing the fentanyl crisis, which has contributed to a significant number of overdose deaths in the United States. By targeting the financial infrastructure of drug cartels, the administration hopes to disrupt the supply chain of illegal drugs and reduce their availability on the streets.

The Treasury Department's actions are also intended to send a strong message to other cartels involved in similar activities. By imposing these sanctions, the U.S. government demonstrates its resolve to hold accountable those who contribute to the nation's drug epidemic.

The sanctions and advisories are part of a multi-faceted approach to tackling the complex issues of drug trafficking and opioid addiction. The administration's efforts include increased border security, enhanced cooperation with international partners, and comprehensive support for addiction treatment and recovery programs.

As the fight against illicit drugs and their devastating impact continues, the Treasury Department's sanctions represent a crucial step in curbing the activities of dangerous cartels like La Nueva Familia Michoacana. The administration's commitment to addressing the root causes of the opioid crisis remains steadfast, with ongoing initiatives aimed at protecting public health and safety.

Josephine County Commissioners’ meeting sparks controversy

Heated debates over public health director and broadband grant allocation

By: Uli Sweet

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners held a contentious meeting that raised eyebrows and sparked heated debates among the residents of Grants Pass. The meeting began with harsh criticism directed at the Public Health Director and revealed questionable financial decisions involving former County Commissioner Simon Hare.

Tensions flared during the session as Commissioner John West berated the Public Health Director for allegedly “leaking information to the Daily Courier.” This incident set the tone for a meeting that would expose deeper issues within the county’s governance.

One of the most controversial topics discussed was the relationship between current Commissioner John West and former Commissioner Simon Hare. It was revealed that Commissioner West had previously paid Hare $3,200 for unapproved and unspecified work, all without a county contract. This transaction, lacking transparency and proper authorization, has drawn significant public scrutiny and criticism.

The controversy did not end there. The county recently received a $150,000 grant aimed at improving broadband infrastructure. However, it was disclosed that approximately $20,000 of this grant will be allocated to Simon Hare over the next eight months. This

decision has been met with outrage from community members who feel that these funds should be used directly for their intended purpose of enhancing broadband access, rather than compensating a former commissioner with a controversial history.

Commissioner West’s actions have led to accusations that he is acting unilaterally and prioritizing personal connections over the county’s best interests. Residents are calling for greater accountability and transparency in the use of public funds, especially in light of these recent financial decisions.

The allocation of the broadband grant funds has become a focal point of controversy. Many community members argue that every dollar of the $150,000 grant should be used to improve the county’s internet infrastructure, a critical need for many residents, or re-

Embaixada dos EUA - Brasil, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Biden and Trump to debate on June 27

By: James Justice

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are set to debate each other on June 27 at 9 p.m. EDT, marking their first face-off in four years. This early debate, happening well ahead of the usual presidential election timeline, signals a break from tradition as the candidates bypass the Commission on Presidential Debates.

The second debate is scheduled for September 10, hosted by ABC.

In recent remarks, Trump has emphasized the importance of not underestimating Biden. However, he and his supporters

have also been circulating unfounded claims about Biden's use of performance enhancers, aiming to discredit the current president’s performance in office. Biden, on the other hand, is looking for a decisive moment to counteract months of negative coverage concerning his age and declining poll numbers.

At 81 and 78 years old respectively, Biden and Trump are the oldest presumptive nominees in U.S. history. National polls indicate a tight race between the two.

Biden’s vulnerabilities, such as his short temper and signs of slowing cognition, could be points of contention in the up-

coming debate, according to those familiar with his debating style. Trump's campaign, meanwhile, is preparing to leverage these perceived weaknesses.

According to Decision Desk HQ and The Hill's presidential election forecast, Trump currently has a 58 percent chance of winning the presidency, compared to Biden’s 42 percent. The debate on June 27 is anticipated to be a critical moment for both candidates as they vie for public support and aim to set the tone for the 2024 election campaign.

Stay tuned for further updates and analysis as the debate approaches.

Celebrate Independence Day at Reinhart Volunteer Park

City of Grants Pass

The City of Grants Pass warmly invites you and your family to celebrate the 4th of July at Reinhart Volunteer Park. Join us for a day filled with fun and festivities, and stay for an unforgettable fireworks show.

The celebration kicks off at 3 PM with a classic car show and Art in the Park, courtesy of Rogue Valley Cruisers and Hiive Art Hub. Enjoy a variety of attractions throughout the day, including food trucks, a bounce house for kids, aerial performances, and a dunk tank sponsored by Grants Pass High School. Live music will keep the energy high with performances from two bands and a DJ.

For your convenience, Josephine Community Transit (JCT) will provide shuttle services between the Grasshopper Parking Lot and Parkside Elementary from 3:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Shuttles will load and unload on “F” Street at the Grasshopper lot and at Parkside Elementary, where a walking path offers easy access to

Reinhart Volunteer Park. The shuttles will run continuously, with the final shuttle departing Parkside Elementary at 11:30 PM, following the fireworks display.

We look forward to seeing you and your family at this year’s 4th of July celebration. Come enjoy the day at the park and make lasting memories with us!

Ethereal Rebels House of Flight 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Live Concert, LoGee & Whutnot starting at 7 pm Fireworks

Controversy and debate at Josephine County Commissioners’ meeting

directed to the Sheriff’s Office, where the funds were initially intended. The decision to divert a portion of these funds to pay Simon Hare has only fueled suspicions of mismanagement and favoritism.

As the county moves forward, there is a growing demand for a thorough investigation into these financial dealings and a reevaluation of the current leadership’s practices. The community’s trust in its elected officials has been shaken, and many

believe that “enough is enough.”

In response to the unfolding situation, residents are urging the Board of Commissioners to adopt stricter oversight measures and ensure that all financial transactions are conducted with full transparency and accountability. The hope is that such steps will restore confidence in the county’s governance and ensure that public funds are used appropriately for the benefit of all Josephine County residents, not just a select few.

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