Marion County Deputy Arnsmeier Charged With Misconduct

The Deputy had been placed on administrative leave in December.

MCSO, Salem-News.com File photo

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Marion County District Attorney's Office is filing charges of Official Misconduct against a Marion County Deputy Sheriff.

Specifically, the complaint alleges five counts of Official Misconduct in the First Degree (ORS 162.415), five counts of Official Misconduct in the Second Degree (ORS 162.405), and one count of Theft in the third degree (ORS 164.043). The charges stem from 4 separate incidents.

Sheriff's Office officials became aware of the allegations that lead to the charges in December, 2010. After conducting an initial review of the allegations, it appeared that there was a possibility of criminal activity involving the unauthorized personal use of office resources. Consistent with Sheriff's Office policy, officials requested the Oregon State Police conduct an independent investigation into the allegations.

On December 29, 2010, Deputy Robert D. Arnsmeier, a 10 year veteran of the Office, was placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation. Arnsmeier began his career as a Reserve Deputy in 2001. He became a full-time Deputy in 2004. He is assigned to the Enforcement Division.

The results of the Oregon State Police investigation were turned over to the District Attorney's Office earlier this month. Deputy District Attorney Bryan Orrio reviewed the investigation and will be handling the prosecution of the case.

Sheriff Myers commented, "This is a difficult situation. As an Office, we support our deputies and stand behind them when they make sound decisions. However, every decision must withstand the scrutiny of our policies, procedures, office code of ethics and the public's trust in our office. If they don't, we are committed to being accountable."

Deputy Arnsmeier is represented by Salem Attorney Kevin Swanson. Arnsmeier will be charged by way of District Attorney's Criminal Information and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, April 7th, 9:30am, at the Marion County Court Annex, 4000 Aumsville Highway, SE, Salem.

SOURCE: Marion County Sheriff's Office