In Portland, Jesse Calhoun has been charged with a fifth murder, stemming from the 2023 death of 22-year-old Ashley Leal. His defense attorney entered a not guilty plea, and the case has drawn attention amid fears of a possible serial killer targeting young women. Calhoun is facing five counts of second-degree murder and four counts of abuse of a corpse, with all victims found within a 100-mile radius.
Leal’s body was discovered in May 2023, leading to a deeper investigation that linked Calhoun to four other victims, including Christine Smith, Charity Perry, Bridget Webster, and Joanna Speaks. Leal’s father and sister expressed their grief in court, with her sister feeling a sense of relief that Calhoun is in custody but mourning her loss. Other victim’s families also attended the hearing, sharing their pain and solidarity.
Calhoun, who was arrested on an unrelated parole violation, had previously served time for various offenses and was released early due to participating in a firefighting program. A trial date has not been established.
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