On March 18, 2025, at approximately 2:20 p.m., Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) security staff were informed of suspected contraband in a special housing unit. While conducting a search, a Correctional Corporal discovered an unknown substance. The area was immediately secured and evacuated. The institution activated an Incident Command Structure (ICS), shut down the air filtration system, and contained the suspected substance. DRCI is working with Oregon State Police and National Guard Civil Service Unit to investigate and assess any potential hazards.
The Corporal received naloxone (Narcan) after direct exposure, was treated at a local hospital, and released. A Correctional Officer in the area experienced an adverse reaction and was evaluated by DRCI Health Services staff.
“The Oregon Department of Corrections takes any threat or risk to the safety and security of employees and adults in custody very seriously. Incidents like this highlight the critical need to prevent the introduction of dangerous and illegal contraband into our facilities,” stated DOC Director Michael Reese.
Deer Ridge Correctional Institution (DRCI) is located four miles east of Madras in central Oregon. DRCI is a multi-custody prison that currently houses 1035 minimum-custody incarcerated adults. DRCI provides a range of correctional programs and services including education and trades programs, mental health treatment, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work crews. Construction began in October 2005 with the first minimum-security adults in custody (AICs) arriving in September 2007. DRCI is the largest minimum-custody facility in the state and Oregon’s fourteenth prison.
