Sickler posts Measure 114 plans on Facebook

Kevin Opsahl, Mail Tribune, Medford, Ore.
·2 min read
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Nov. 12—Jackson County Sheriff Nate Sickler took to Facebook Saturday to say his department will enforce some parts of Measure 114 but not all, such as the measure's prohibition against gun magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.

The ballot initiative would require a permit to purchase a gun in the state and ban the sale or transfer of gun magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.

"We will not spend time and resources investigating who has obtained magazines that have a capacity over 10 rounds after this measure takes effect," Sickler said. "If this measure takes effect, my office will work diligently to ensure people have the ability to get a permit needed to purchase a firearm, as that is a constitutional right. We are going to collaborate with our county, municipal and state partners to ensure this process is as efficient as possible."

As of Saturday, Measure 114, was ahead 50%-49% statewide. In his Facebook post, Sickler noted that Jackson County voters overwhelmingly opposed the measure, 59%-40%, according to the latest results.

"In elections, that margin is generally considered decisive," Sickler stated.

As the leader of a county law enforcement agency, the sheriff said he and others in the ranks must "constantly evaluate" the resources it has to improve public safety — and resources are short, according to the sheriff.

Sickler said Measure 114 is "wrought with issues."

"(These) include placing unfounded mandates on law enforcement, the difficulty of multiple government agencies trying to coordinate to provide a single mandated service, and most certainly the numerous legal challenges that will test the constitutionality of this measure," Sickler stated.

His comments came after Michelle Duncan, the sheriff of Linn County, and Union County Sheriff Cody Bowen wrote on their Facebook pages that they would not enforce Measure 114.

Sickler could not immediately be reached for comment Saturday.

Reach reporter Kevin Opsahl at 541-776-4476 or kopsahl@rosebudmedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @KevJourno.