Lookout PM: Stolarczyk trial begins

Good evening,

The manslaughter and drunken driving trial of Scott Stolarczyk began today at the Lane County Courthouse. A jury was selected and both sides presented opening statements. Stolarczyk was driving the vehicle that hit and killed Sharon Schuman, a former UO professor, professional violinist and well-known Eugene resident, while she was jogging on the Amazon trail about a year ago. Our justice reporter Jaime Adame has the story.

One of the seven men charged last fall in a burglary ring targeting Asian households in Oregon and Washington pleaded guilty today. Federal prosecutors recommended he be sentenced to 18 months in prison after which he would probably be deported, the judge said. Three others are expected to plead guilty over the next few weeks, and prosecutors said the remaining three suspects are no longer in the country. Jaime Adame reports.

Scams are getting way more sophisticated, police and advocates say — some even use AI voice cloning to make it seem like you are on the phone with someone you know. Our local AARP chapter plans a workshop to help people understand fraud trends and avoid getting ripped off. Check out Mike McInally’s story to learn more and find out how to register for the event.

In our opinion section today:

A guest column by Steve McQuiddy offers a history lesson on a Eugene landmark, a place many of us have been many times while being — in my case anyway — ignorant of its backstory. It’s a tale about the legacy a community can leave by choosing to tax itself for the benefit of future generations.
A letter to the editor praises the skills of Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon while endorsing his run for a seat on the Lane County Board of Commissioners.

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DAILY DIGEST

Trial begins for motorist in death of Eugene resident Sharon Schuman

By Jaime Adame

The first day of a manslaughter trial for 52-year-old Scott Stolarczyk included opening statements. The jury is set to begin hearing testimony Wednesday.

Colombian man pleads guilty in burglaries targeting Asian households

By Jaime Adame

The 48-year-old, one of seven suspects, will probably be deported after serving his sentence, a judge said. Three additional suspects are expected to also plead guilty in the coming weeks. A prosecutor said three others allegedly involved are no longer in the United States.