News Release from Oregon State Police
January 6th, 2021 7:40 PM

Oregon State Police have heard rumors that armed groups were considering taking over and/or occupy the State Capitols.

Oregon State Police fully support peoples first amendment rights of freedom of speech and to gather peacefully.  OSP will not tolerate criminal activities and you will be arrested if you engage in any of these acts. 

The security of the capitol is our priority, if you are considering any unlawful activities at the Oregon State Capitol or surrounding areas, please reconsider.  The safety of our community members, Capitol occupants, and police officers is paramount.

If you are aware of anyone that intends to engage in these criminal acts, please report them to your local law enforcement or to the Oregon State Police immediately. 

Contact Info:
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Police

Media Email: OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Twitter: @ORStatePolice
Facebook: @ospsocial

Update

On January 6, 2021 at approximately 6:00 P.M., Troopers contacted, Cody Melby (39), attempting to access several doors at the Oregon State Capitol.  He was contacted and arrested for Trespassing while in possession of a firearm. 

Cody Melby was lodged at the Marion County Jail.

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On Wednesday, January 6, 2021, Oregon State Police, Salem Police Department, and Marion County Sheriff's Office personnel were monitoring a protest that was occurring at the Oregon State Capitol. 

At approximately 2:00 P.M., a group of counter protesters arrived at the Capitol and a fight broke out between the opposing sides.  Law Enforcement members quickly separated the two groups and worked to keep the two groups separate for the remainder of the day.

David Willis (43)  of Lincoln City, was arrested and charged with harassment and disorderly conduct.  The investigation is continuing and more charges are possible after consultation with the Marion County District Attorney.

Contact Info:
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Police

Media Email: OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Twitter: @ORStatePolice
Facebook: @ospsocial

News Release from Oregon State Police
December 30th, 2020 7:17 PM
Downloadable file:Salem_Police_Community_Message_-_January_1_Protests.pdf

The Oregon State Police is aware of several protests that are planned in the Salem area on Friday, January 1, 2021.

The protests are planned to happen at the Oregon State Capitol, Bush Pasture Park, and Mahonia Hall. These protests could also affect streets in the areas of these locations.  

OSP encourages people to exercise their first amendment right, but please do so lawfully, peacefully, and respectfully.

OSP and Salem Police Department will have personnel assigned to monitor these protests.  If criminal behavior is observed and the situation allows you will be cited or arrested.  If an arrest or citation is not able to be immediately made, police will be investigating criminal behavior. If you feel you are the victim of a crime please ensure that you report that to the police. 

OSP has set the following operational goals:      

• Ensure a safe, non-violent environment for rally participants.

• Ensure a safe, non-violent environment for citizens of Salem and for those passing through the area.

• Minimize traffic flow issues and disruptions.

• Deter or prevent criminal acts and take enforcement action as necessary.

• Protection of property from damage and unauthorized access.

Salem Police Department's Community Message is attached.

Contact Info:
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Police

Media Email: OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov

### www.oregon.gov/OSP ###
Twitter: @ORStatePolice
Facebook: @ospsocial