In this episode of Oregon D.O.G.E., State Representatives Jeff Helfrich and Alex Skarlatos join Senator Kim Thatcher and staffer Ben Schimmoller to expose the alarming breakdown of public safety across Oregon — from the lack of police to cartel activity, from skyrocketing crime to unaccountable NGOs absorbing taxpayer funds.
While Portland’s leadership continues to push policies that weaken law enforcement and protect criminals, the people paying the price are Oregonians in every community.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
1. Oregon Ranks Among the Worst for Police Staffing
Oregon is ranked 49th in the nation for law enforcement per 100,000 people, and dead last (50th) for state troopers per capita. This shortage has left rural and urban communities vulnerable — and overwhelmed.
2. The Cartels Are Here — And Thriving
Oregon is not just a transit state for cartels — it’s home base. From massive illegal marijuana grows in Deschutes County to multi-million-dollar fentanyl and meth busts in Portland and Salem, international cartels are thriving under weak enforcement and sanctuary state laws.
3. Illegal Immigration & Crime: A Growing Link
Guests discuss how Oregon’s sanctuary policies have handcuffed ICE and emboldened criminal networks. Cases highlighted include:
- Illegal immigrants caught with firearms and released on low bail
- Cartel members laundering millions through car purchases
- Migrant laborers living in slavery conditions on illegal farms
4. TriMet Is a Crime Hotspot
With over 80% of riders saying they feel unsafe, TriMet has become a public safety liability. Guests discuss real experiences from law enforcement and legislative audits that show Portland’s public transit system is overfunded and underperforming.
5. Kate Brown’s Clemency Scandal
Oregon’s former governor granted clemency to over 1,200 convicted criminals, including 17 death row inmates — often without notifying victims’ families. At least one recipient went on to murder four more people.
6. Portland’s Collapse as a Cautionary Tale
Portland’s leadership allowed 100+ days of riots, the firebombing of federal buildings, and the demoralization of police. The hosts detail how “gentrification” and crime migration spread lawlessness to Gresham, Salem, and beyond.
Solutions Offered
- Reinstate mandatory sentencing for violent crimes
- Increase state trooper funding and accountability
- Criminalize pill presses and synthetic drug production
- End sanctuary city loopholes that block federal enforcement
- Audit NGOs that receive state public safety and addiction dollars
Final Thought
As Senator Thatcher said:
“There’s a shift happening in public opinion — people are starting to realize we need cops again.”
But unless voters act, Oregon will continue to descend into chaos.