Grand jury considers Califf case today
By Terry Murry on Tuesday, February 16th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
HERMISTON – A Umatilla County grand jury will hear the case against Howard Oliver Califf, 46, of Hermiston today (Tuesday). Last week he was arrested by Hermiston police after making a strong-arm entrance on a home on East Gladys Avenue last week, allegedly firing at a man who was doing repairs and shooting, but not killing, the man’s dog.
Umatilla County District Attorney Dan Primus said Califf will be formally arraigned later this week, and he’s looking to the grand jury for an indictment on the preliminary charges, which include three felonies.
“Attempted murder is obviously a measure 11 offense,” Primus said. “He’s looking at some mandatory minimum sentences as a result.”
The home Califf entered was his former residence. In December, a restraining order was issued, barring his entry.
“So, there was some concern that was already there,” Primus said. “Obviously, the circumstances are egregious and great.”
Califf’s bail is set at $390,000.
