In recent developments in the Portland area, Jesse Lee Calhoun has been formally charged with the murder of Kristin Smith, bringing the total number of homicide charges against him to four. Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez announced this during a press conference, highlighting that a grand jury indicted Calhoun with second-degree murder and abuse of a corpse for Smith’s death. Her remains were discovered in late 2022, over two years after the incident. Calhoun had already faced similar charges concerning the deaths of three other women: Charity Perry, Bridget Webster, and Joanna Speaks. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Kristin Smith’s mother, Melissa Smith, has expressed her unwavering hope for justice, noting it has been 898 days since she learned of her daughter’s death. She vowed that “the Portland Five” will not be forgotten, emphasizing the emotional toll this tragedy has had on families and the community. This case, characterized by its grim nature, has raised concerns about the possibility of a serial killer targeting young women in the Oregon region. Law enforcement has been tight-lipped regarding the investigation, although they are looking into the death of another woman, Ashley Rial, who is reportedly linked to Calhoun.
The victims’ bodies have been found in remote locations across Oregon and southwestern Washington, which has added layers of complexity to the investigation. They were discovered in wooded areas, culverts, and even under bridges, establishing a 100-mile radius pattern that has alarmed local communities. The families of the victims have been vocal in their grief and have demanded accountability from Calhoun, with Charity Perry’s mother, Diana Allen, delivering a pointed message aimed directly at him.
In June 2023, Calhoun was apprehended due to unrelated parole violations and subsequently indicted in May 2024, just before he was slated for release from prison. His prior convictions included a mix of violent and non-violent crimes, which paints a troubling picture of his history. Notably, he was initially released early due to participation in a wildfire firefighting program, but this was later rescinded after he became a homicide suspect.
DA Vasquez refrained from labeling Calhoun’s actions as serial killings, focusing instead on the victims and the significant impact their murders have had on the community. Despite not applying the label of “serial killer,” the nature of the charges against Calhoun suggests a disturbing pattern. The local and greater communities are growing increasingly anxious over the unresolved aspects of the case and the potential connection to other untimely deaths.
While the investigation continues, the legal proceedings have begun, with a trial dating set for 2027. Calhoun currently remains in custody at the Inverness Jail in Multnomah County, as the families and communities affected by these tragedies await justice. The emotional weight of the situation is felt deeply, as families grapple with their losses while advocating for justice and clarity from the legal system. The case serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young women and the broader community’s responsibility to protect and seek justice for them.
