Here is the latest Oregon news from The Associated Press
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The jailed leader of the armed group that took over a national wildlife refuge in eastern Oregon is speaking out after he and 15 others were indicted by a federal grand jury. Ammon Bundy struck a defiant tone in an audio recording released by his family. Bundy defended taking over the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge as a way to educate people about injustices by federal officials toward ranchers and others.
SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Gov. Kate Brown and Secretary of State Jeanne Atkins say more than 4,300 Oregonians have been registered to vote under a unique new Oregon law that’s been dubbed “motor voter.” The system registers voters after they obtain or renew their driver’s license, permit or identification card. Another 17,000 already registered voters have updated their addresses under the new system, which means more ballots will reach their rightful owners.
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Four Portland women have been accused of stealing more than 50 Fitbit activity trackers from two Eugene businesses in one day. The Register-Guard reports that according to court documents, the women took the trackers from an AT&T store and an REI on Jan. 13. Two of the women have been arraigned in circuit court. The other two failed to appear and warrants have been issued for their arrest.
MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) — The beloved animal ambassador for an Oregon wildlife center is recovering from eye surgery. The Mail Tribune reports that the 35-year-old golden eagle named Phoenix had a cataract removed in Medford. Phoenix was found on a remote road while he was still a fuzzy eaglet.