GASTON, Ore. -- Washington County will not pursue legal action against the man cited for posting unauthorized warning signs at Henry Hagg Lake.
Michael Medill, 66, of Gaston, was cited for damaging public property at the lake on Sept. 6.
Medill said he posted the warning signs in an attempt to prevent another tragedy in the spot where four family members were found drowned last month.
Deputies said his intention was good, but the signs weren't translated properly into Spanish, causing some confusion. They also said he damaged trees and shelter support beams when he bolted the signs in.
But Wednesday a spokesman said Washington County will not pursue prosecution in the case.
"We recognize this was a unique circumstance and that Mr. Medill's actions were motivated by the tragic incident at Hagg Lake and his intent was to perform a public service," a letter from the county to the district attorney reads. "We also recognize that our park manager and our deputy were doing their duty in protecting park property and enforcing the law when this citation was issued."
After reviewing the decision, the DA decided not to prosecute.
Deputies have changed the rules at Hagg Lake since Medill's signs were taken down.
Washington County officials posted temporary warning signs at Hagg Lake on Wednesday. Permanent signs will be posted later this week, officials said.
