Oregon Youth Authority director placed on leave amid ‘backlog’ of complaints

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Gov. Tina Kotek officially placed the director of the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA), Joe O’Leary on administrative leave Friday, as the agency faces comprehensive review of the their handling of abuse complaints involving in-custody youths.

This announcement comes after six lawsuits and multiple complaints were filed against OYA staff, citing previous and ongoing abuse. The claims also mention supervisors failing to intervene and report the alleged abuse.

Court documents state three of the plaintiffs in cases filed last year – who ranged in age from 15 to 21 at the time of the reported abuse – were each allegedly groomed and coerced into sexual relations with OYA staff who worked at MacLaren and Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facilities.

According to a statement from the law firm of Levi Merrithew Horst, who represents the plaintiffs in these cases, two of the defendants named in the complaints were group life coordinators who were responsible for overseeing daily living activities and guiding the incarcerated youth.

In the meantime, Gov. Kotek has appointed Jana McLellan, who currently serves as the interim deputy director, as acting director of OYA.

“Complaints that come to the PSO [Professional Standards Office] must be taken seriously and addressed expeditiously. A backlog is unacceptable,” Governor Kotek said. “Oregon youth in the state’s care rely on us to keep them safe and get this right.”

KOIN 6 News has reached out to the OYA for comment. They redirected us to the governor’s office for further comment. This story will be updated when we hear back.