Oregon Youth Authority Appoints New Director Amid Abuse Lawsuits

Governor Tina Kotek has appointed Michael Tessean as the new director of the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA), effective August 18 pending Senate confirmation, following the firing of former director Joe O’Leary amid a backlog of unresolved sexual abuse investigations. Tessean, previously director of the Colorado State Board of Parole, brings over two decades of experience in juvenile justice, behavioral health, and public safety, and will oversee nearly 1,000 employees and a $551 million budget across nine facilities serving youth offenders. The agency faces numerous lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by former staff members, including at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility, with plaintiffs reporting ignored or mishandled abuse complaints. Interim director Jana McLellan, who has led OYA since March, plans to retire at the end of September. Kotek expressed confidence that Tessean’s leadership will drive necessary organizational and cultural reforms focused on transparency, accountability, and staff development. Tessean has committed to fostering a youth justice system rooted in humanity and data-driven approaches to support the rehabilitation and growth of young people in state custody.