MEDFORD, Ore. (Dec 8, 2025) — A Jackson County man has been sentenced to more than six years in state prison after abruptly pleading guilty midway through his burglary trial, prosecutors announced today.
Christopher Michael Jenkins, 40, was convicted of first-degree burglary, first-degree aggravated theft, unauthorized use of a vehicle, first- and second-degree theft, and first-degree criminal mischief, according to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
A jury trial began as scheduled on Dec. 4, but partway through the prosecution’s case, Jenkins halted the proceedings and entered guilty pleas without any negotiated offer from prosecutors.
During sentencing, the victim’s daughter delivered an emotional statement describing the toll the crimes had taken on her family. She said the losses were not only financial but also deeply personal — damaging her mother’s sense of safety and undermining the lifelong work of her father. She also expressed sadness for Jenkins’ young son, saying his father’s actions would have lasting consequences on the boy’s life.
Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Jeremy Markiewicz highlighted the aggravated nature of the crimes and noted that Jenkins attempted to shift blame during his remarks to the court. Markiewicz sentenced him to 76 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections.
The case was investigated by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy District Attorney Wade Hilsher prosecuted the case.
Prosecutors said no additional information will be released while charges against a co-defendant remain pending.
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