News Release
| Release Number: | 08-114 |
| Dated: | 7/24/2008 |
| Contact: | Erica Gann, 503-808-4510 |
PORTLAND, Ore. — Over the summer, thieves have broken into the storage warehouse located at Fall Creek Dam near Lowell, Ore., stealing fish transportation equipment, electrical conductors and wiring worth thousands of dollars. Law enforcement officials are investigating, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
So far in 2008, theft and vandalism in the Willamette Valley has resulted in significant monetary loss to the Corps. “Replacing stolen equipment and repairing damages caused by vandalism is expensive and diverts taxpayer dollars from maintenance and upgrades to our critical infrastructure,” said Doug Dailey, Corps security specialist. “These types of crimes are on the rise and affect everyone in the community.”
"We're hoping that someone will have information about the theft at Fall Creek or have observed suspicious activity near the dam," Dailey continued. "Folks who have seen or heard something may second guess themselves and not call, but even the smallest details can help law enforcement officials make significant investigative progress." All calls made to the hotline are confidential, and callers can remain anonymous.
Through it’s Corps Watch Program, the Corps offers up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of individuals committing crimes against Corps facilities and infrastructure. Anyone having information is asked to call a confidential and toll-free Corps Watch Hotline at (866) 413-7970 or local law enforcement.
Fall Creek Dam, located 25 miles southeast of Eugene on Fall Creek, is one of 13 multi-purpose dams operated by the Corps of Engineers in the Willamette Valley. The dam provides flood control, irrigation, navigation, improved downstream water quality, and water-based recreation.
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