Klamath Falls man pleads insanity to Attempted Aggravated Murder for 2020 shooting at police

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - On January 21, 2020, Steven Earl White fired multiple rounds at two deputies from the Klamath County Sheriffs Office.  The deputies had been dispatched to White’s home due to his repeated calls to 911, which were peppered by irrational and illogical commentary.  

When Deputies Dragoon and Banderas arrive and stepped out of their vehicles, White yelled at them to get off his property and begin discharging a firearm at the deputies from inside the residence, firing 10 to 12 shots at a time. 

Klamath County Sheriff’s Office vehicles were damaged and both deputies could hear bullets ricocheting close to them. 

White was subsequently charged with two counts of attempted aggravated murder, two counts of unlawful use of a weapon, one count of improper use of 911, and one count of criminal mischief for damage to the police cars. 

After being deemed unable to aid and assist his counsel, White was sent to the Oregon State Hospital.

According to the Klamath County District Attorneys Office, “unable to aid and assist in one’s defense” is defined as, one suffering from a mental disease or defect which renders the individual unable to comprehend the court process, the legal charges, or the nature of decisions one must make when charged with a crime or crimes. 

White remained at the Oregon State Hospital until July of 2021 where they were able to treat White’s underlying mental condition and restore him to a condition where he was able to understand the nature of the charges, aid in his defense, and facilitate the advancement of his criminal matters.  

On December 15, 2021, White pled guilty except for insanity to both counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder.  He was found to be a danger to others and was committed to the custody of the Psychiatric Security Review Board through the Oregon State Hospital, for a period of twenty years on each count, to be served consecutively. 

The Psychiatric Security Review Board remains responsible for White for the entire length of this sentence.

Sheriff Chris Kaber has stated he is grateful that Mr. White has been sentenced and will no longer pose a threat to the health and safety of deputies or other members of the community.

Eve Costello, Klamath County District Attorney, is grateful to Deputy Dragoon and Deputy Banderas for their service prior to and after this incident.  Their dedication to community safety and public service eludes adequate expression.