Eugene Weekly Hit by Embezzlement, Future Uncertain

The Eugene Weekly, a longtime community cornerstone, is facing an uncertain future after revealing it has become the victim of embezzlement. Editor-in-Chief Camilla Mortensen announced on December 28th, stating that financial irregularities prompted an investigation that confirmed the misappropriation of funds.

The paper’s immediate operations have been significantly impacted. The print edition has been temporarily suspended, with no confirmed date for its return. Additionally, The Eugene Weekly’s entire staff was laid off, though some employees have reportedly volunteered their time to maintain the online version.

Authorities are currently investigating the matter, but no arrests have been made. Mortensen has fully cooperated with the investigation and hired a forensic accountant to help determine the full extent of the financial damage. She emphasizes that the goal is to “find the truth, hold those responsible accountable, and rebuild the trust of our community.”

News of the embezzlement has understandably shaken The Eugene Weekly’s supporters. Some have expressed skepticism about Mortensen’s role in overseeing the paper’s finances and have questioned the timing of the fundraising campaign launched alongside the announcement. Others remain supportive, stressing the importance of separating one individual's actions from The Eugene Weekly's value as a community resource.

Currently, the fate of the paper hangs in the balance. Whether The Eugene Weekly can recover from this setback and resume its role as a vital voice in Eugene remains to be seen. The ongoing investigation and the community’s response will ultimately determine its future.

Some in the community do feel that asking the public for funding and services to keep the paper going before the investigation is complete is not appropriate, and they also feel that all parties should be under investigation with thorough review and transparency at the height with consideration to embezzlement allegations.

The Eugene Weekly is seeking assistance from the public and creative community to raise funds to keep the paper going and intends to host a public event on January 12th to raise those monies to pay for past due and unpaid bills to their printer — who has refused to print any further newspapers unless payment is presented first.