Forum Over Oregon Standoff Canceled Over Safety Concerns

BURNS, Ore. (AP) — A judge who planned to host a community meeting Monday over the standoff at an Oregon wildlife refuge has canceled it due to safety concerns.

Harney County Judge Steve Grasty said in a news release authorities had become aware of plans to protest the meeting and block the entrance to the county senior center, where it was to be held. Earlier Grasty had said that a no-guns policy would be strictly enforced at the meeting.

A spokeswoman for the county said Sunday afternoon she didn't have further information about the safety concerns or specifically who intended to block the senior center entrance.

An armed group led by Ammon Bundy has been occupying the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge since Jan. 2 to protest federal land use policies. Oregon lawmakers have been increasing their pressure on federal authorities to step in and end the occupation.