Community Notification – Sex Offender Information Release Marion County (Photo) - 01/27/26

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: Samuel Gardiner
SID#: 20111726
DOB: 12/06/1989
Current Age: 36
Race: White
Sex: Male
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 190 lbs
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown

Residence:
231 25th Street NE
Salem, OR 97301

Supervision Status:
Samuel Gardiner is currently on Post-Prison Supervision for the following crimes:
• Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (two counts)

Supervision began: 05/23/2025
Supervision expires: 05/22/2028

Victim Information:
Gardiner’s offending history includes minor victims who were unknown to him.

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

Two Dead Following Single-Vehicle Crash In Turner - 01/19/26

On January 18, 2026, at approximately 2:30 a.m., first responders were dispatched to a single-vehicle crash on Turner Road SE, just south of Crawford Street SE, in Turner, Oregon.

Upon arrival, deputies and fire personnel located a black Kia that had left the roadway and overturned into a ditch. Two female occupants were pronounced deceased at the scene, including a 16-year-old juvenile and Perla Nieto, age 20, from Silverton. An adult male passenger, Elias Ramirez-Perez from Salem, age 24, was extricated from the vehicle and transported to Salem Hospital with serious injuries. An 8-year-old juvenile passenger was also transported to Salem Hospital as a precaution and was not believed to have sustained life-threatening injuries.

Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputies were assisted at the scene by the Turner Fire Department, the Marion County Crash Team, Marion County Public Works, and the Marion County Medical Examiner’s Office. The roadway was closed for approximately five hours investigators processed the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident.