Portland Doctor Sentenced To Prison In Hit And Run Death Of Woodburn Man - 05/13/26

State of Oregon v. Kenneth Kolarsky

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR25205

Salem, OR – May 12, 2026 –  Yesterday, Marion Circuit Court Judge Courtland Geyer sentenced Kenneth Kolarsky, age 59, to 13 months in the Department of Corrections and 36 months of Post-Prison Supervision. The conviction is based upon a guilty plea of Attempted Failure to Perform Duties of Driver to an Injured Person.

On the evening of December 26, 2024, Nicolas Hernandez-Mendoza was struck by a vehicle as he crossed North Pacific Highway near Williams Avenue in Woodburn, Oregon. Hernandez-Mendoza had activated the crosswalk safety lights as he began crossing the street and was hit by a vehicle operated by the defendant, Kolarsky.  Upon striking Hernandez-Mendoza, the defendant stopped the vehicle, drove around his unconscious body in the roadway, and then fled the scene.

Hernandez-Mendoza was transported to Salem Hospital where he was diagnosed with a fracture of the cervical vertebra and pelvic fractures.  He died during emergency surgery when surgeons were unable to stop his spleen from bleeding.

Woodburn Police Detectives requested and reviewed footage from dozens of nearby businesses and residences to establish the license plate number, make and model of the defendant’s vehicle. After further investigation and review of surveillance video, Kolarsky, who was an emergency room physician, can be seen entering his place of employment approximately 20 minutes after striking the decedent. He was on his way to work at Silverton Hospital from his residence in the Portland area on the night of the incident.

On May 17, 2025, after a considerable investigation, the defendant was arrested by Woodburn Police Officers.

Of note, the criminal charges at issue were limited to Kolarsky leaving the scene. There was insufficient evidence to conclude that the collision itself was the result of criminal activity.  

“Regardless of why the accident occurred, to leave a scene after striking someone with your vehicle is a callous disregard for human life” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “That’s intolerable, and especially offensive when it is committed by a professional who takes an oath to ‘do no harm’”.

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Tyler Hopkins. In addition to the incident itself, Hopkins pointed to defendant trying to repair his vehicle with cash, and his dishonesty in the investigation as additional justifications for an 18-month prison sentence. The defendant had no prior criminal history and had a presumptive prison sentence of 16-18 months in the Department of Corrections.

During his ruling, Judge Geyer acknowledged that the defendant left “a community member fallen and in the dark” and with an “absence of dignity.”    Judge Geyer imposed a downward durational departure and imposed 13 months with 26 months of post-prison supervision.  

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office wishes to acknowledge the Woodburn Police Department, and in particular Detectives Devoe and Ellis, along with Lieutenant Stewart, for their outstanding investigatory work.  Their partnership with other jurisdictions, both in and out of state, led to the resolution of this case.

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CrossWalk Donations Surpass Expectations For Victims Of Crime In Marion County (Photo) - 04/28/26

Salem, OR – April 28, 2026 –  On March 7^th of this year, the 14^th annual CrossWalk fundraising event brought approximately 140 community members from Marion County together raising money in support of victims of crime.  The 1.5 mile walk began and ended at the Gerry Frank Amphitheater at Salem’s Riverfront Park.  On Friday April 24, 2026, representatives from CrossWalk presented Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson with a check for $70,000 – more than double the funds collected in 2025.

CrossWalk supports the Marion County District Attorney’s Office Victim Assistance Program, which has served victims of violent crime since its establishment in 1981. Over the decades, the program has expanded its reach and extended its services to its current state with numerous full-time dedicated employee advocates who work alongside volunteers and interns.  These individuals generously give their heart and time to provide critical services to victims throughout Marion County. 

These services include 24-hour on-call support for survivors of sexual assault and for the loved ones of homicide victims, guidance and support throughout the entire life of a case in the prosecution process - grand jury, motions and trial, sentencings and parole hearings -  and connect victims of child abuse, domestic violence, stalking, elder abuse, and other traumatic crimes to vital supports available in the community. 

There is always more work to be done and more needs to fill than can be met by the county budget.  CrossWalk seeks to fill that gap with funds that allow the Marion County District Attorney’s Office to help in tangible ways not otherwise available.  Because of Crosswalk, crime victims can receive sustaining services in their attempts to regain some semblance of normalcy. Ways in which CrossWalk dollars have been used to provide these crucial services include:

• Hotel stays for victims and their families who lost a home
• Securing airfare for family members to join a hospitalized victim or attend sentencing proceedings in support
• Purchasing dog food for victims’ pets during unstable times
• Covering the cost of storage units for displaced domestic violence victims to safely maintain their property
• Obtaining clothing items for victims who lost everything as a result of a crime
• Installing a security system following burglaries
• Paying utility bills for a family after domestic violence disrupted their economic stability

The CrossWalk event was founded by Salem resident Mary Lucas, whose life changed on New Year’s Day in 2011. While walking near Riverfront Park, Lucas was attacked by a man who dragged her down an embankment and held her at knifepoint. Her calls for help were heard by three young men who intervened and brought her to safety. The attacker was later apprehended by Salem Police and prosecuted by the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

Lucas later created CrossWalk to transform that traumatic experience into something positive - an opportunity for the community to come together, raise awareness, and support victims of violent crime.

“CrossWalk is a powerful example of turning tragedy into purpose,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “The funds raised through this event directly support services that help victims navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives.  While we can never undo what happened to them, the generosity of Crosswalk’s work means we can try to help victims move forward.  I am always overwhelmed by the charitable heart of our community and the resilience of the people we serve.  We are privileged to do this work.”

The Victim Assistance Program continues to advocate for victim rights, provide direct services, and strengthen partnerships across agencies to better serve the community. If you are interested in learning more about being a volunteer, click here. To make a donation to CrossWalk visit www.crosswalksalem.org.

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Defendant Sentenced In Child Sexual Abuse Of A Family Member - 04/24/26

State of Oregon v. Michael Ryan Sims

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR33202

Defendant Sentenced in Child Sexual Abuse of a Family Member

Salem, OR – April 24, 2026 –  On April 23, 2026 Marion County Circuit Court Judge Manuel Perez sentenced Michael Ryan Sims (age 36) to 125 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections. Sims pled guilty to multiple sex offenses and will be required to register as a sex offender. He was convicted of the following charges:

• Sodomy in the Second Degree (2 counts)
• Rape in the Second Degree
• Luring a Minor

In January 2025 Sims was arrested following an investigation by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office into the sexual abuse of a 12-year-old relative. The investigation revealed that the abuse occurred in October 2024 at the defendant’s residence. Cell phone records and social media communications documented explicit messages and confirmed the sexual conduct.

During the abuse, the victim’s siblings were also often present in the home or on the property. The victim’s father ultimately discovered explicit messages between Sims and the victim detailing the abuse leading to the arrest and prosecution.

“These crimes will always be our priority as our office remains committed to ensuring children are safe,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “This type of conduct, especially by a family member, is particularly heinous. I am grateful for the courage it took for the victim to come forward, and his sentence reflects a measure of accountability."

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Matthew Estrada. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the critical and delicate work of the Children’s Center and the investigation by the Marion County Sherrif’s Office. Their excellent work led to justice in this case.

Due to the involvement of child victims and the nature of criminal behavior, no additional details will be released.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time for communities nationwide to come together and take action to support strong families, thriving children, and healthier communities.  If you have any child safety concerns, please call the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

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Man Sentenced For Child Sexual Abuse Involving Multiple Victims In Marion County - 04/22/26

State of Oregon v. Eric Tyreak Gordon

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR22843, 25CR63097 & 25CR05205

Salem, OR – April 22, 2026 –  Today Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Gardiner sentenced Eric Tyreak Gordon (age 25) to 264 months (22 years) in the Oregon Department of Corrections. He will be required to register as a sex offender. Gordon pled guilty to the following charges:

• Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct
• Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree (2 counts)
• Sodomy in the Third Degree (3 counts)
• Unlawful Delivery of a Marijuana item (2 counts)
• Failure to Report as a Sex Offender
• Rape in the Third Degree

Gordon was arrested and charged in April 2025. The convictions stem from three separate Marion County cases involving victims between the ages of 14 and 15, including two cases of child sexual abuse involving three minor victims. Gordon also pled guilty to related charges in Multnomah County (Sodomy in the Third Degree and Rape in the Third Degree), where the sentence will run concurrent to the Marion County sentence.

“These charges reflect deeply troubling conduct,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “I’m grateful for the work done by our community partners at Liberty House and the Salem Police Department. Our office remains committed to prosecuting crimes of this nature and safeguarding the children in our community.”

The crime of Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct is a Ballot Measure 11 crime, which requires a mandatory prison sentence of 5 years 10 months.  

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kylie Kuhns. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the critical and delicate work of the Liberty House and the thorough investigation by the Salem Police Department, and particularly Detective Fultz with the Special Victims Unit.  

Due to the involvement of child victims and the nature of criminal behavior, no additional details will be released.

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Salem Man Pleads Guilty In Traffic Death And Sexual Abuse Of 16yo - 04/20/26

Salem, OR – April 20, 2026 –  On April 17, 2026, The Honorable Marion County Circuit Court Judge Tracy Prall sentenced defendant Christopher Atkinson, age 34, to 192 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections. Atkinson pled guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, two counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree, and Driving Under the Influence.

The conviction stems from two separate incidents that occurred in March 2025.  On March 10, 2025 Atkinson secured a hotel room for himself, and three juveniles.  He provided BuzzBallz “Biggies” to the juveniles.  The defendant and a 16-year-old victim engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct while she was under the influence of alcohol.

Later that month, on March 23, the defendant was driving in his vehicle with four passengers, including the victim from the previous event, between the ages of 12-16 of age.  While speeding east on Fern Ridge Road SE, the defendant lost control of his vehicle, a white Mercedes sedan.  The car skidded off the road and flipped upside down, ejecting the passenger (age 16) riding in the back seat on the right side of the vehicle which resulted in her death. The 12-year-old in the vehicle was intubated at Salem Hospital and then flown via life flight to OHSU with significant injuries. The defendant initially tried to walk away from the scene but returned.

The defendant admitted that he had been driving with the juveniles for a few hours, and everyone was smoking and drinking.  Atkinson provided alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana to the juveniles.  He admitted to driving at speeds near 100mph during the evening.  A bong, commonly used for smoking marijuana, was found in the vehicle.

“This was a heartbreaking and entirely preventable tragedy,” said Chief Deputy DA Brendan Murphy. “The defendant’s decisions resulted in the loss of a young life, and our office will continue to hold offenders accountable for devastating choices like this.”

Deputy District Attorney Shannon Sullivan represented the state in this case. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to thank the community partners who helped in the investigations in both cases. Our community is made better because of the work of Liberty House, the Salem Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Jury Conviction Leads To 25 Year Prison Sentence In Child Kidnapping Case - 04/17/26

State of Oregon v. Elijah G. Arce

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR43807

Jury Conviction Leads to Prison Sentence in Child Kidnapping Case

Salem, OR – April 17, 2026 –  On April 17, 2026 Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jodie Bureta sentenced Elija G. Arce (age 49) to 300 months (25 years) in the Oregon Department of Corrections, and a life-time of post-prison supervision. He will be required to register as a sex offender.

Arce’s conviction is the result of a missing child incident that occurred on August 5, 2025.  The parents of the victim, a minor, reported her missing from their Northeast Salem home.  The defendant had lured the victim away and escorted her several blocks to a secluded area concealed by fencing and shrubbery.  Officers canvassed the neighborhood, and a bloodhound from Salem Police Department, named Trusty, was deployed.  A neighbor heard about the missing child and to help, began searching the area near the fairgrounds. He came upon where the defendant had hidden and saw the defendant with his arms around the child. He flagged down police officers and directed them to the hidden location. Officers climbed through a nearby cut in the fence, secured the child, and arrested the defendant.

The conviction followed unanimous guilty verdicts issued by a Marion County jury. Arce was convicted of Kidnapping in the First Degree, Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Attempted Rape in the First Degree, and Attempted Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine.

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple. She referred to it as “a parent’s worst nightmare.”

“DDA Semple is correct- this is every parent’s worst nightmare.  That’s why I’m grateful for community members who have so much care for the well-being of our children,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “This type of criminal behavior is intolerable. We will continue to aggressively prosecute these types of crimes, and Judge Bureta’s sentence speaks to that violation.”

The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the swift and thorough investigation of the Salem Police Department, and particularly the actions of Detective Court Kirksey.  Additional gratitude is extended to the Keizer Police Department and the Oregon State Police for their respective roles in the search and for covering Salem Police calls for service while the search took place. 

Due to the involvement of a child victim, no additional details will be released.

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