Marion County Search And Rescue Assists In Successful Rescue Of Two Lost Hunters (Photo) - 11/06/25

Marion County Search and Rescue (SAR) team assisted today, Nov. 6, 2025, in the successful rescue of two lost hunters near French Creek. Several volunteers responding to this mission also participated in the recent Clackamas County search earlier this week—logging nearly 20 hours within the last 24 hours in challenging terrain and severe weather.

Despite limited rest and soaked gear from prior operations, volunteers once again deployed without hesitation. Working through heavy rain, 20–40 mph winds, and rugged terrain, they located and safely escorted the hunters out of the area.

This incident also serves as an important reminder for anyone entering remote areas: always carry a satellite-capable phone or InReach device. In this rescue, searchers were able to pinpoint the hunters’ location using a cell phone SMS link through SARTopo, placing searchers within feet of the lost hunters.

Marion County Sheriff's Office extends deep appreciation to its dedicated volunteers and partner agencies for their tireless service- often in the harshest of conditions. Their continued commitment exemplifies the strength of teamwork and public service.

If you are interested in joining our SAR team, you can directly reach out to SAR Coordinator Sgt Garrett Olson at GOlson@co.marion.or.us.

Afternoon House Fire Claims The Life Of 71-Year-Old Salem Woman (Photo) - 10/29/25

Just after 12:30 p.m. on October 29, 2025, emergency personnel were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 4700 block of Oak Park Drive NE in Salem. Within minutes, fire crews arrived to find the residence fully engulfed.

During their response, firefighters located a deceased woman inside the home. She has been identified as 71-year-old Lesa Lemons of Salem.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office extends our deepest condolences to Ms. Lemons’ family and loved ones during this difficult time.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Marion County Fire District No. 1 and the Oregon State Fire Marshal. The cause of the fire remains under investigation; however, at this time, it does not appear to be suspicious.

Community Notification – Sex Offender Information Release (Photo) - 10/29/25

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the following information pursuant to ORS 163A.215, which authorizes Community Corrections to inform the public when the release of such information will enhance public safety and protection.

The individual listed below has been convicted of a sex offense requiring registration with the Oregon State Police. Based on their criminal history, this person has been classified at a level indicating a potential to re-offend. This notification is not intended to increase fear, but rather to support public awareness and safety.

NAME: Cheslee Dave Jeffers
SID#: 12838780
DOB: 04/23/1980
Current Age: 45
Race: White
Sex: Male
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue

Residence:
743 Hawthorne Ave NE
Salem, OR 97301

Supervision Status:
Cheslee Dave Jeffers is currently on Post-Prison Supervision for:

• Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle
• Escape II

Previous convictions include:

• Two counts of Sex Abuse II (2021)
• Three counts of Rape III (2006)
• Rape III (2001)
• Rape III (1999)
• Multiple property and person-to-person crimes dating back to 1997

Victim Information:
Jeffers’ known victims were female teenagers known to him.

Supervision began: 05/10/2024
Supervision expires: 12/05/2026

Special Conditions:
☒ No contact with minors
☒ Do not frequent places where minors congregate