Medford School Board Member With Sheathed Knife: Charges Not Pursued By DA

MEDFORD, Ore. — Charges laid in terms of the  Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 166.370 against Medford School Board member Michael Williams, who allegedly wore a sheathed knife on his belt during school board meetings and other school-related events, will not be pursued by the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office (DA).

District Attorney Declines To Prosecute Medford School Board Member

Following a complaint against Williams, the Oregon State Police (OSP) conducted an investigation, which was completed and submitted to the District Attorney’s Office earlier this month. OSP concluded that no crime had occurred, and Chief Deputy District Attorney Patrick Green agreed after reviewing the findings.

The DA announced yesterday that it would not file charges against Wiliams regarding the criminal complaint alleging a violation of Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 166.370.

Under the statute, intentional possession of a dangerous weapon, including a knife, in a public building is a Class C felony if the weapon is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used as a dangerous weapon.

Under ORS 161.015, a dangerous weapon is an instrument capable of causing death or serious injury under the circumstances in which it is used.

The investigation revealed no evidence to suggest that Williams had used or attempted to use the knife in question in any way that would violate the statute. According to the DA, Williams’ actions didn’t meet the criteria for criminal charges under ORS 166.370 or any other law.

The District Attorney’s Office indicated that the investigation was limited to potential criminal violations and did not evaluate whether the actions violated school board policies.