District Attorney

The Animal Abuse prosecutors handles all misdemeanor and felony animal cruelty cases in Clackamas County. Their role is to ensure that individuals who harm animals are held accountable and that abused animals receive protection and justice. 

Working With Law Enforcement and OHS 

The prosecutors works closely with the Oregon Humane Society and local law enforcement agencies. Together, they: 

• Guide and support animal abuse investigations
• Review evidence and file appropriate criminal charges
• Coordinate with officers, veterinarians, and other experts throughout the case 

Ensuring Justice for Animals 

Accountability can take several forms, depending on the case: 

• Criminal convictions for individuals who commit acts of abuse or neglect
• Probation conditions that prevent offenders from owning or possessing animals
• Civil processes that allow the state to remove animals from unsafe or abusive environments 

These tools help protect animals, prevent future harm, and reinforce the community’s commitment to animal welfare. 

Make a report of animal cruelty

Abuse of adults over the age of 65 affects some of our most vulnerable community members. Elder abuse can occur at home, in nursing homes, or other care facilities, and may be committed by family members, caregivers, acquaintances, or professionals in positions of trust. 

Types of Elder Abuse 

• Physical Abuse: Slap marks, unexplained bruises, pressure marks, burns (e.g., cigarette burns)
• Neglect: Pressure ulcers, poor hygiene, lack of medical care, malnutrition, or dehydration
• Emotional Abuse: Withdrawal, unusual behavior, or unexplained changes in alertness
• Sexual Abuse: Bruises around breasts or genital area, or unexplained sexually transmitted diseases
• Financial Abuse/Exploitation: Sudden changes in finances, altered wills/trusts, unusual bank activity, or loss of property 

Protections and Support 

• Protective Orders: Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities Protective Order (EPPDAPA)
• Victim Assistance: Call 503-655-8616 for help applying for protective orders and accessing support 

Reporting Elder Abuse 

• Law Enforcement
• Adult Protective Services (APS): 971-673-6655 

Additional Resources 

• Clackamas County Social Services – Senior Resources
• Call 503-650-5622 

Victim Assistance provides guidance, support, and information for victims and non-offending family members. 

If a child is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

If you suspect abuse, contact law enforcement or the Oregon Department of Human Services Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Line: 1-855-503-7233. 

Victim Advocates in the District Attorney’s Office are mandatory reporters and must report suspected child abuse. You can speak with an advocate 24/7 at 503-655-8516. 

What Is Child Abuse? 

Child abuse includes neglect, physical abuse, and sexual abuse involving anyone under age 18. Abuse is often committed by someone the child knows, including family members. 

Learning a child has been abused can be overwhelming. Our Victim Assistance team supports children and the adults who care for them throughout the healing process. 

How Victim Assistance Helps 

Throughout the investigation and court process, a Victim Advocate will: 

• Stay in regular contact with the child’s parent or caregiver to provide information and support.
• Help the child or family connect with law enforcement and the assigned Deputy District Attorney.
• Explain what to expect during each step of the criminal justice process.
• Assist families in understanding and exercising their rights.
• Attend meetings and court hearings with the child or their family.
• Connect families with supportive services, including:
  • Crime Victim Compensation for medical or counseling costs not covered by insurance.
  • Children’s Center of Clackamas County for medical exams and forensic interviews.
  • Counseling referrals based on the child’s needs.
  • DHS Self-Sufficiency resources for financial assistance. 

Under Oregon law (ORS 163.415), sexual abuse is defined as any non-consensual sexual contact, including acts involving physical force or threats that place someone in fear of immediate or future harm. Common terms include rape, sexual abuse, and sodomy. 

Understanding Reactions 

There is no “normal” reaction to sexual abuse. Survivors may feel overwhelmed, numb, anxious, angry, or out of control. Reactions can include difficulty concentrating, interacting with others, sleeping, or eating. 

Medical Care 

Even without visible injuries, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A sexual assault examination: 

• Can include preventive treatment for STDs and HIV
• Preserves potential physical evidence for later reporting
• May be covered by the Sexual Assault Victims’ Emergency (SAVE) fund if performed within 7 days of the assault 

You do not need to report to police to receive an exam. 

Victim Advocate Support 

Victim Advocates provide emotional support, resources, and advocacy whether or not you report the assault to law enforcement. They can: 

• Explain reporting options
• Support you during a medical exam
• Help access funds for medical care
• Provide information, referrals, and safety planning
• Assist with filing protective orders 

If you report to law enforcement, advocates can also: 

• Support you through the criminal justice process
• Notify you of court hearings and outcomes
• Accompany you to court and meetings with police or prosecutors
• Help you understand and exercise your victim rights
• Provide ongoing resources and safety planning 

Victim Assistance Contact 

Phone: 503-655-8616 (24/7) 
Email: victimsassistance@clackamas.us 

Domestic Violence Support 

Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling behavior used by an intimate partner or family member to gain power over another. It can affect anyone—regardless of age, race, religion, education, or income. 

Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological. Common examples include: 

• Extreme jealousy or monitoring your whereabouts
• Isolating you from friends or family
• Physical harm such as hitting, pushing, kicking, or strangling
• Threatening you with weapons or objects
• Forcing sexual acts
• Controlling your ability to leave
• Restricting access to money or basic needs
• Interfering with your job or causing employment problems 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing domestic violence, Victim Assistance is here to help. 

How We Support Victims and Families 

Our office provides confidential, trauma-informed support, including: 

• Immediate emotional and physical support after a crime
• Personalized safety planning
• Help applying for protective orders
• Guidance and support when reporting to law enforcement
• Information about your rights as a victim of crime
• Ongoing support and accompaniment throughout the criminal justice process
• Referrals to community resources such as counseling, shelters, and advocacy services
• Assistance applying for Crime Victim Compensation for medical or counseling costs
• Help requesting restitution for out-of-pocket expenses 

If you need support for yourself or a loved one, please contact us. You are not alone. 

Victim Assistance 

Phone: 503-655-8616 (24 hr.)  
Email: victimsassistance@clackamas.us