ORS 180.120: Defending in criminal proceedings for Oregon State Police or member thereof; conducting prosecutions.

(1) The Attorney General shall:

      (a) Defend all criminal actions and proceedings in which the Department of State Police or any member thereof is concerned as a party, which require the services of an attorney or counsel in order to protect the interests of the state and are necessary for the purposes of the Department of State Police or the members thereof.

      (b) Conduct such prosecutions as shall be directed by the Superintendent of State Police with the approval of the Governor.

      (2) The Attorney General may appoint an attorney for the purpose of such defense or prosecution and certify the expenses thereof to the Department of State Police for payment from the moneys appropriated for the Department of State Police.