Oregon's Public Defender Crisis: A Recipe for Home Break-Ins and Dismissed Cases.
Portland residents are warning of a rise in home break-ins as businesses flee the city due to a crime crisis exacerbated by a public defender shortage and a flawed justice system. More than 300 criminal cases, including some related to felony theft, possession of a stolen vehicle, and gun charges, have been dismissed. Residents say the problem is less centered around homelessness and more focused on perpetuating drug addiction. Businesses like Walmart are pulling out of the area, and some residents fear that criminals will turn to home break-ins as a result.