Grand Jury green lights prosecution of TD Police Officer on theft charges
By Tom Peterson
The Dalles, Ore., March 21, 2025 — A Wasco County Grand Jury unanimously found there was enough evidence for District Attorney Kara Davis to move forward with theft charges that are leveled against at City of The Dalles Police Officer.
Davis said the Grand Jury came to the conclusion on Wednesday, March 19 after hearing evidence from the prosecution in the case.
Officer Jeremy Dutton, a 10-plus year member of The Dalles Police force, is accused of first-degree theft of $1,000 or more from the City of The Dalles on four separate time periods between May 2023 and January 2025.
The Information also alleges false swearing for knowingly submitting overstated time on his time sheets and official misconduct on the allegation he falsified time sheets and grant reporting with the intent to obtain a benefit, in this case money.
Davis opened an investigative grand jury that started on March 12 regarding Officer Dutton.
The purpose of this grand jury is two-fold: to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with formal charges against Officer Dutton, and to provide guidance to the District Attorney’s Office regarding the specific charges the state should pursue, Davis said.
The investigation into Officer Dutton began after the City of The Dalles Police identified discrepancies in their records. Demonstrating a commitment to transparency and fairness, The Dalles Police Department immediately requested the Oregon State Police to conduct an independent investigation, which resulted in the current charges under review.
"Due to the nature of the allegations, the District Attorney’s Office will not call Officer Dutton as a witness in any case until this case is resolved. If any convictions result, or the outcome dictates that this restriction should become permanent, that determination will occur at that time," said Davis last week.
Officer Dutton has been placed on administrative leave from The Dalles Police Department.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The grand jury process is a vital component of our legal system, designed to ensure impartiality and thoroughness in the pursuit of justice.
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Oregon State Police and the City of The Dalles Police Department for their swift and cooperative assistance in this matter," said District Attorney Davis.
