Oregon Deputy Accused of Creating Adult Content While On-The-Job

Yamhill County, Oregon- In a statement released today, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) revealed the initiation of both criminal and internal affairs investigations stemming from concerns raised by a community member on September 1, 2023.

The complaint, received by YCSO Command staff, detailed online adult content allegedly depicting an employee of the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, as well as insignia, uniforms, and restricted areas within county buildings. YCSO confirmed the existence of publicly accessible adult images online that raised potential violations of internal and county-wide policies.

After consultation with the Yamhill County District Attorney’s Office, the decision was made to launch a criminal investigation based on the preliminary information available that day. On the afternoon of September 1, 2023, the implicated employee (a YCSO Deputy) was placed on leave, pending further investigation. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was tasked with conducting the criminal investigation, given the need for an independent external agency.

The criminal investigation, despite challenges posed by serving warrants to digital content platforms headquartered outside Oregon, was concluded in a relatively short timeframe. The findings were forwarded to the Yamhill County District Attorney on December 7, 2023. In light of the close working relationship between Yamhill County deputies and the District Attorney’s Office, an external review was requested and conducted by the Benton County District Attorney’s Office.

Following the thorough examination, charges were officially filed in Yamhill County Circuit Court on December 14, 2023. With the criminal investigation concluded, the internal affairs investigation, aimed at determining if any Sheriff’s Office or County policies were violated, is set to be expedited.

In a closing statement, the YCSO emphasized the gravity of filing criminal charges within a law enforcement agency and the commitment to a due process-oriented response.

The internal affairs investigation will adhere to the steps outlined in the collective bargaining agreement, ensuring a comprehensive examination of the matter at hand.