On July 29, 2026, Coos County District Attorney Jody Newby announced the successful conclusion of a 27-month investigation and prosecution involving six adults who either were convicted at trial or entered guilty/no-contest pleas for sexually abusing two children under the age of 12. The case began in April 2024 after a report to school officials. It was investigated by Coos County Sheriff’s Office Detective David Ritz, with substantial assistance from the FBI (led by Special Agent Deane Davis). Former District Attorney R. Paul Frasier continued to prosecute the cases after his retirement at the request of DA Newby. The last case was completed on July 20, 2026. Digital evidence recovered from cell phones and a portable hard drive, combined with forensic interviews of the victims, was central to the prosecutions. Three jury trials were conducted; the remaining defendants resolved their cases through plea agreements reached with the agreement of the victims and their guardians. Sentences imposed: Jesse Frank Reigard, 45 (former Bridge resident): Convicted after two jury trials of multiple first-degree sex offenses under Jessica’s Law. Sentenced to 25 years consecutive on each count, plus 2½ years for felon in possession of a firearm — total of 152½ years with no eligibility for parole or early release. Karissa Danielle Reigard, 33: Pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree sodomy. Sentenced to 25 years under Jessica’s Law (no parole or early release). Tallon James McDonald, 45: Convicted at trial of multiple first-degree sex offenses under Jessica’s Law. Sentenced to 50 years (no parole or early release). Nathan James Bennett, 41: Pleaded guilty to three counts of first-degree sexual abuse (Measure 11). Sentenced to 15 years (no parole or early release). Erik Lee Mathew, 34: Pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree sexual abuse (Measure 11). Sentenced to 11½ years (no parole or early release). Gregory Carl Scott, 59: Pleaded no contest to one count of first-degree sexual abuse (Measure 11). Sentenced to 75 months (no parole or early release). All defendants receive credit for time served prior to sentencing. District Attorney Newby commended the investigative work of Detective Ritz and the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the critical digital forensics support provided by the FBI, and the continued service of retired District Attorney Frasier in seeing the cases through to completion.

WHEN: April 2024
WHERE: Bridge & Myrtle Point, Oregon
SUSPECTS:
Jesse Frank Reigard  SEX OFFENDER
Karissa Danielle Reigard  SEX OFFENDER
Tallon James Mcdonald  SEX OFFENDER
Nathan James Bennett  SEX OFFENDER
Erik Lee MATHEW  SEX OFFENDER
Gregory Carl Scott  SEX OFFENDER

posted 4 days ago