Criminal Justice (Courts)

SB 1557 updates Oregon's rules for court contempt proceedings. It clarifies who can initiate contempt actions (such as parties, district attorneys, city attorneys, or authorized officials) and requires detailed documentation like affidavits to notify defendants of specific alleged misconduct. The bill mandates hearings before imposing sanctions, ensures defendants are informed of their right to counsel (especially if confinement is sought), and specifies that proof of contempt requires clear and convincing evidence. These changes standardize procedures for handling contempt cases across Oregon courts.

] [ Expands the crime of aggravated harassment to include threats concerning public officials in specified circumstances. Punishes by a maximum of five years' imprisonment, a fine of up to $125,000, or both. ] Provides that standing pretrial release orders do not affect the authority of a magistrate to consider the primary and secondary release criteria when making a release decision. Restricts law enforcement agencies' use of automated license plate recognition systems except for specified authorized uses. Limits retention of captured license plate data to no more than 30 days unless the captured license plate data is related to an ongoing criminal investigation or court proceeding. Requires law enforcement agencies to adopt policies for ALPR vendor contracts and the use of ALPRs and captured license plate data. Limits sharing of captured license plate data with non-Oregon law enforcement agencies. Prohibits ALPR vendors from accessing, selling or disclosing captured license plate data. Provides exemptions. Authorizes the imposition of civil penalties for intentional or grossly negligent violations. Authorizes civil actions for violations. Removes the named administrator of and technical assistance provider for the Justice Reinvestment Equity Program and requires the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to select a technical assistance provider according to specified criteria. Declares an emergency, effective on passage.

Allows a person who has been deprived of rights, privileges or immunities secured by the Oregon Constitution or the laws of this state by a person acting under color of law to bring a civil action for economic and noneconomic damages and for injunctive or other equitable relief. Provides for the award of attorney fees and costs to a prevailing plaintiff, or to a prevailing defendant if the court finds that a plaintiff's claim was frivolous, unreasonable or without foundation. Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.