*** Located *** Deputies Searching For Missing 70-Year-Old Woman In Jefferson Area (Photo) - 09/03/25

*Denise has been located and is safe. Thank you for the community assistance. 

Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies are currently searching the Jefferson area for a missing woman, 70-year-old Denise Epps Parrent.

Denise was last seen around 8:00 p.m. this evening near the 14000 block of Ananonda Ln SE, just outside of Jefferson.

She is described as a white female, approximately 5’3” tall, 135 lbs., with medium-length brown hair. Her clothing description is unknown at this time. Denise is known to have medical issues.

If you see Denise, please keep her in sight and call 911 immediately.

ADULT IN CUSTODY DEATH AT THE MARION COUNTY JAIL - 09/02/25

On September 1, 2025, just after 7:53 a.m., deputies found Steven Adams, 58, unresponsive in his cell at the Marion County Jail. Deputies and medical staff immediately began CPR and called for emergency responders, but sadly, lifesaving efforts were not successful, and Mr. Adams was pronounced deceased. The cause of death is still under investigation.

In accordance with the Marion County Sheriff's Office policy, the Linn County Sheriff's Office has been asked to investigate this incident as an independent law enforcement agency.

Our thoughts are with Mr. Adams’ family during this difficult time.

***Located*** Deputies Are Currently Searching Outside Of The Gervais Area For A Missing 68-year-old Woman With Dementia And Alzheimer’s (Photo) - 08/08/25

***Update*** At approximately 6:24 p.m., on 8/8/2025, Debra was located and has been transported to the hospital for evaluation. No further updates are available at this time.

Debra Kenfield, 68, was last seen around 1:15 p.m. today near the 6600 block of St. Louis Rd NE, outside of Gervais.

She is described as a white female, thin build, approximately 5’7” tall, last seen wearing grey shorts, blue Crocs, and a red sweatshirt.

If you see Debra, please keep her in sight and call 911 immediately.