Klamath Falls, Ore. – The Klamath County District Attorney says he doesn’t want one of the county’s five judges to hear any criminal cases.
Cameron Wogan has served as a Klamath County Judge since 1993.
But D.A. Rob Patridge doesn’t want Wogan hearing any criminal cases…
“We just don’t feel like the victims and the state get a, have the same opportunities that they may have in other courtrooms.”
An affidavit is now filed with every criminal case in Klamath County requesting a judge other than Wogan.
“That statute allows us to do that.” Says Patridge. “And we’re availing ourselves of the statute.”
When pressed, Patridge wouldn’t go into details about the claims against Judge Wogan…
“It’s just a variety of activity related to Judge Wogan and his court, and rulings that have come out.”
Patridge says the issues with Judge Wogan aren’t anything new, as a previous blanket order was issued by former District Attorney Ed Caleb…
“We made the decision based on the experience that Ed Caleb had, and the pattern of activity.”
When contacted, Judge Wogan said that ‘The rules of judicial conduct prevent him from commenting’.
But, the ‘affidavits of prejudice’ against Wogan continue.
“The remedy is that there could be a hearing.” Notes Patridge. “At this point in time, there’s been no objection.”
Wogan’s current 6-year term will expire in January of 2017.
Four of the five judge positions in Klamath County are up for election next year.
This Thursday is the first day candidates can file to run for state, or county offices.
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