Accurate, Timely Information
About Oregon’s Public Safety System
Oregon Criminal Justice Truth Project issues new report on policing in Portland.
New analysis finds officer shortage is driving slow emergency response, weakening livability, and slowing economic recovery
Three former Portland police chiefs are endorsing a newly released report analyzing police staffing levels in Portland, concluding the city is operating with a significantly reduced sworn force relative to peer cities.
“Portland police staffing levels have reached dangerous levels,” said Rosie Sizer, former police chief. “Low staffing most negatively affects vulnerable communities, jeopardizes economic recovery and reduces the police bureau’s ability to address crime and the fear of crime.”
“Public safety is the foundation for healthy, thriving communities where people can raise a family or grow a business. To ensure the livability of our community, the Portland Police Bureau needs additional officers to enable a rapid response to emergencies, and to investigate serious crimes when they occur,” said Mike Reese, retired chief of police.
"I've seen first-hand what happens when we divest from our police,” said Chuck Lovell, former police chief. “The Portland Police Bureau needs to be adequately funded and staffed to give the people of Portland the service they deserve."
updated 14/14/2026
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Founded by retired district attorneys in 2024, the membership of OCJTP represents decades of prosecutorial experience from across the state.
The Oregon Criminal Justice Truth Project is a non-profit organization established to provide accurate and timely information about Oregon’s public safety system.
OCJTP is a resource for policy makers, the media, and Oregon citizens. A venue for honest discourse about one of the foundations of our civil society – our system of criminal justice.
