Lake Oswego man sentenced to two years in prison for drugging young girls during sleepover

Lake Oswego, Oregon – Michael Meydan, a 57-year-old resident of Lake Oswego, Oregon, has been sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to drugging his daughter’s 12-year-old friends during a sleepover. The incident occurred in August 2023, prompting a swift legal response and emotional reactions from the victims’ families.

Sentencing and Victim Impact

At the sentencing hearing, parents of the affected girls delivered powerful statements, expressing their outrage and emotional turmoil caused by Meydan’s actions. One mother described the ordeal as playing Russian roulette with my child’s life, highlighting the profound impact on her daughter’s well-being. Another parent spoke of the emotional toll, stating, I have cried and raged, trying my best to support my daughter through this traumatic experience.

Incident Details and Court Proceedings

According to court documents, Meydan drugged the girls by lacing mango smoothies with benzodiazepine, a depressant that induces sedation. The girls, after consuming the smoothies, reported feeling disoriented and eventually blacking out. One of the victims managed to alert her mother via text message, pleading to be picked up due to feeling unsafe.

During the investigation, it was revealed that Meydan monitored the girls closely, even rearranging one girl’s body on the bed to ensure they appeared asleep. This behavior alarmed the girls, who sensed his presence despite pretending to be unconscious.

Legal Charges and Response

Initially facing multiple felony charges, including causing minors to ingest controlled substances and delivery of controlled substances to minors, Meydan eventually pleaded guilty to three counts of causing another person to ingest a controlled substance. Despite his claims of intending to ensure the girls’ safety due to a previous incident involving his daughter, the court found his actions unjustifiable.

Community and Family Impact

The incident has had a profound effect on the community, with parents advocating for the maximum possible sentence of four-and-a-half years. Meydan’s apology during the court proceedings fell short of gaining forgiveness from the families, who continue to grapple with the aftermath of his actions.

Conclusion: Justice Served but Wounds Remain

While Michael Meydan has been sentenced for his crimes, the emotional scars left on the victims and their families serve as a stark reminder of the trust violated and the need for vigilance in safeguarding children. The case underscores the importance of parental vigilance and community support in protecting young individuals from harm.

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By Thomas Bart

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