On July 23, 2024, Timothy J Shewell (41 years old) was convicted of five separate incidents of child sexual abuse, conduct he perpetrated on two children over several years.  After a five and a half day trial, a Marion County jury found Shewell guilty of multiple offenses. 

On July 31, 2024, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Daniel J. Wren sentenced Shewell to 25 years in the Oregon Department of Corrections.

Trial began on July 19, 2024. One investigation was conducted by Detective Scott Nowning of the Salem Police Department. The other incident was investigated by Deputy Joshua Tribby of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. One of the victims was a teenager at the time of her abuse, the other was under 10 years old.  The cases were consolidated for trial and prosecuted by Marion County Deputy District Attorney Kylie Kuhns.

At sentencing, DDA Kuhns commended the bravery of the victims and emphasized the need to hold the defendant accountable, especially given that this case represented multiple incidents of abuse against two children. 

Even after the verdict, Shewell took no accountability and asked the Court to sentence him to the minimum sentence, arguing he is a good person who has never hurt anyone. 

Shewell did not apologize for his actions. 

Judge Wren disagreed that Shewell was innocent, saying he believed the jury reached the correct verdict.  He then sentenced Shewell to 25 years Department of Corrections, over 18 years longer than the minimum sentence he could have imposed.  Shewell is not eligible for early release, will have 45 months of post-prison supervision and have to register as a sex offender.

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Salem Police Department, Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Liberty House for their excellent work helping both children receive justice. 

Any questions can be directed to DDA Kuhns at (503) 588-5222