Marion Co. Dist. Attorney's Office

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News Release

Salem Man Sentenced For Stabbing Landscaper - 02/27/26

Salem, OR – February 27, 2026 – On February 26, 2026, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Amy Queen sentenced Jonathon L. Jones (age 58) to 70 months in the Department of Corrections for Assault in the Second Degree.

 

On January 7, 2026, the Salem Police Department responded to a reported stabbing at the business complex located at 4500 Commercial Street Southeast. The victim, Victor Hernandez-Lopez, was transported to Salem Hospital for treatment of multiple stab wounds.  A witness at the scene identified Jones as the assailant.

 

Jones was known to live in a tent within the business complex near where the assault occurred.  At the time of the incident, the victim, a landscaper, was using a leaf-blower in the area. Jones claimed he believed the noise and activity were blowing his stuff around, which angered him.  He then stabbed Hernandez-Lopez.  The knife used in the assault was located among Jones’ belongings.  

 

Assault in the Second Degree under these circumstances is a Ballot Measure 11 offense, carrying a mandatory prison sentence.   There is no early release nor eligibility for alternative programming.

 

“Our office remains committed to protecting the safety of everyone who lives and works in Marion County,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “Violent acts like this have no place in our community. This sentence holds the offender accountable and helps to reinforce public safety for our residents and businesses in the area.”

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Meghan Kamps. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the detectives and officers of the Salem Police Department for their swift response and thorough investigation.

 

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

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Salem Man Sentenced For Stabbing Landscaper - 02/27/26

Salem, OR – February 27, 2026 – On February 26, 2026, Marion County Circuit Court Judge Amy Queen sentenced Jonathon L. Jones (age 58) to 70 months in the Department of Corrections for Assault in the Second Degree.

 

On January 7, 2026, the Salem Police Department responded to a reported stabbing at the business complex located at 4500 Commercial Street Southeast. The victim, Victor Hernandez-Lopez, was transported to Salem Hospital for treatment of multiple stab wounds.  A witness at the scene identified Jones as the assailant.

 

Jones was known to live in a tent within the business complex near where the assault occurred.  At the time of the incident, the victim, a landscaper, was using a leaf-blower in the area. Jones claimed he believed the noise and activity were blowing his stuff around, which angered him.  He then stabbed Hernandez-Lopez.  The knife used in the assault was located among Jones’ belongings.  

 

Assault in the Second Degree under these circumstances is a Ballot Measure 11 offense, carrying a mandatory prison sentence.   There is no early release nor eligibility for alternative programming.

 

“Our office remains committed to protecting the safety of everyone who lives and works in Marion County,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “Violent acts like this have no place in our community. This sentence holds the offender accountable and helps to reinforce public safety for our residents and businesses in the area.”

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Meghan Kamps. The Marion County District Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the detectives and officers of the Salem Police Department for their swift response and thorough investigation.

 

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

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