A Newberg man, accused of a summer-long theft spree across Yamhill County, now faces a mountain of charges following a grand jury indictment earlier this month. Ronald Lee Hassler, arrested in October by Newberg-Dundee police, was formally indicted on November 6 in Judge Ladd Wiles’ courtroom. The case was presented by Deputy District Attorney Benjamin Donner, and Hayley Capener, a McMinnville attorney, was appointed as Hassler’s defense counsel.
Dozens of Charges for Alleged Crime Spree
The indictment outlines an extensive list of charges against Hassler, including eight counts of unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle, six counts of criminal mischief, 13 counts of theft ranging from first to third degree, one count of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Authorities allege that Hassler’s crimes spanned a three-month period, from mid-June to mid-September, with at least 10 separate incidents connected to him. His alleged accomplice, Megan Alizabeth Rainey, was also arrested and may be tried alongside him, according to court records.
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Hassler and Rainey were both released on their own recognizance after their October arrests. Hassler’s next court appearance is scheduled for December 18, when he is expected to enter a plea.
Detailed Police Investigation Leads to Indictment
The case against Hassler is primarily based on a probable cause affidavit filed by Officer Richard Krepps of the Newberg-Dundee Police Department. The affidavit, dated October 7, details multiple thefts, property damage incidents, and interviews in which Hassler reportedly admitted to several of the crimes.
According to the affidavit, on June 13, Hassler entered an unlocked 2003 Kia Spectra and stole a pair of Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses worth approximately $350. He allegedly attempted to start the vehicle, damaging the ignition in the process. Police say Hassler later admitted to both the theft and the damage.
The following night, June 14, Hassler reportedly broke into another vehicle on First Street, stealing a bag worth about $350 and causing $400 in window damage. Witnesses and security footage identified him by his clothing and bicycle, police said. He again admitted to the crime during questioning.
Vehicle Theft and Escalation
On June 16, Hassler allegedly stole a Ford F-150 pickup from the 2500 block of Haworth Avenue. Video footage from a nearby home appeared to show Hassler and Rainey exiting the stolen truck later that same day. The vehicle was recovered in August, and Hassler reportedly confessed to the theft.
His crime spree allegedly continued through the summer. On July 2, he is accused of breaking into a Chevy Traverse and stealing a wallet containing nearly $2,500 in cash, a passport, and several credit cards, which were later used for more than $5,000 in fraudulent charges. Hassler reportedly told investigators he gave the cards to a Salem resident identified in court documents as “CJ.”
Just days later, on July 6, police allege Hassler stole items valued at nearly $300 from a Ram 3500 pickup. On July 11, he was again caught on surveillance video allegedly breaking a car window and stealing a bag before fleeing on his bike. Officer Krepps noted in his affidavit that Hassler’s “unique clothing” helped identify him in multiple incidents.
Firearm and Final Thefts
The affidavit also details a July 20 theft involving a stolen purse and an August 24 break-in in the 400 block of Blaine Street, where Hassler allegedly stole a Glock handgun, a Kershaw knife, and other personal items. He reportedly admitted to giving the stolen Glock to the same Salem resident, CJ, involved in previous thefts.
The spree’s final two alleged incidents occurred on August 31, when Hassler reportedly stole a bicycle, and on September 13, when he broke into a car on Hancock Street, stealing a purse and several credit cards. Those cards were also later used fraudulently by CJ, according to police.
Accomplice Faces Charges
Hassler’s alleged partner, Megan Alizabeth Rainey, faces her own set of charges. She was arrested in connection with the June 16 truck theft and has been charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle and first-degree theft.
Community Impact and Ongoing Case
The investigation into Hassler’s alleged thefts involved coordination between Newberg-Dundee Police and other local law enforcement agencies. Officer Krepps’ report credited consistent witness cooperation and surveillance footage for helping build a strong case.
The series of thefts rattled residents across Newberg and nearby areas over the summer, with multiple victims reporting stolen property and vehicle damage. While most stolen items have been recovered, authorities say some valuables — including the Glock handgun — remain missing.
As the case proceeds, prosecutors are expected to argue that Hassler’s repeated offenses demonstrate a clear pattern of criminal behavior across Yamhill County. If convicted on all charges, he could face a significant prison sentence.
For now, both Hassler and Rainey remain free pending their December court appearance, as the community awaits the outcome of a case that underscores the rising concern over property crimes in small Oregon towns.
