The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety convened on January 29, 2025, to discuss pressing issues related to criminal caseload filings in Oregon. The meeting highlighted a notable increase in criminal cases, particularly misdemeanors and serious felonies, which are significantly impacting the state's judicial system.

The discussion opened with an overview of the rising trend in criminal case filings, reversing a previous decline. The most substantial increase has been observed in misdemeanor cases, attributed to the implementation of House Bill 4002, which recriminalized the possession of controlled substances. This legislation, effective September 1, 2004, has led to a surge in what are termed drug enforcement misdemeanors (DEM cases).

In addition to misdemeanors, serious criminal cases, including murder, have also seen a dramatic rise. Since 2020, murder case filings have increased by 55%. In 2024, there were 146 murder case filings reported, a figure that, while tragic, is significantly lower than the exaggerated perceptions that may arise from media portrayals of crime. Subcommittee members expressed concern about public perceptions, particularly from international audiences, regarding safety in Oregon compared to larger urban areas like New York.

The meeting underscored the strain on the judicial system, with judges in larger jurisdictions managing multiple murder trials simultaneously—often between nine and ten cases at a time. This heavy caseload not only affects the judges but also has broader implications for jurors, who may experience trauma from the cases they hear. In response, the court system has begun offering counseling services to jurors following particularly difficult trials.

The subcommittee also noted an uptick in attempted murder cases and Measure 11 cases, which will be monitored closely in the future. The discussions emphasized the importance of addressing these trends while also reassuring the public about the overall safety of communities in Oregon.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the Oregon judicial system due to rising criminal case filings, the need for resources to support jurors, and the importance of accurate public perceptions regarding crime rates in the state. The subcommittee plans to continue monitoring these trends and will provide updates as more information becomes available.