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Downloadable Resources: • Link to downloadable photos from the ceremony • Link to feature video • Link to the Benton County Public Podcast episode honoring Haroldson’s legacy
Yesterday, August 28, there was a dedication at the Historic Benton County Courthouse, and the Corvallis Library hosted a retirement ceremony for Benton County District Attorney John M. Haroldson, a trailblazer in Oregon’s legal community. As the first Hispanic or Latino District Attorney in the state's history, Haroldson's career has been marked by his dedication to justice and his commitment to community service.
As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, it's a timely moment to reflect on Haroldson's legacy, which embodies the spirit of the celebration by honoring the contributions and cultural richness of the Hispanic and Latino community. Haroldson's journey to becoming Benton County’s top prosecutor began long before his appointment in February 2007 by Governor Ted Kulongoski. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from Central Washington University and a Doctorate in Jurisprudence from the University of Oregon, Haroldson launched his prosecution career as an intern-prosecutor for the City of Albany in 1988. He later served as a Linn County Deputy District Attorney before joining Benton County as Chief Deputy District Attorney in 2002. His leadership and expertise in this role led to his election as District Attorney in November 2008, a position he has held with distinction for approximately 17 years.
Throughout his tenure, Haroldson earned recognition from both the Oregon Crime Victims’ Compensation Program and the Oregon Humane Society for his excellence in prosecution. His contributions to the legal field extend beyond the courtroom, as he has also served as adjunct faculty for Willamette University School of Law and the National College of District Attorneys, shaping the next generation of legal professionals.
Reflecting on his career, Haroldson said, "Serving the public in this noble pursuit has been a great honor and exceptionally rewarding. In addition to the daily responsibilities that go with serving as District Attorney, I have sought to build an office that our community can confidently rely upon to uphold the standards of justice in Benton County. I am very proud of our office and the service we provide to our community."
Haroldson further emphasized the importance of community in achieving justice.
"Justice cannot be fully realized unless you have a community that cares. I believe Benton County is such a community, and we all benefit as a result."
Raised in both the Pacific Northwest and Monterrey, Mexico, Haroldson's rich bilingual and bicultural upbringing has been a defining influence in his life and career. The son of a Scandinavian father and a Mexican mother, Haroldson holds the honor of being Oregon’s first Mexican-American District Attorney, a role he has approached with a deep understanding of diverse perspectives.
As he steps into retirement, Haroldson leaves behind a legacy of justice, education, and service—a legacy that has paved the way for future generations in Oregon’s legal community.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.