Grants Pass Police Department

10/02/2026

09/17/2026

🚨 Community Alert

The Grants Pass Police Department is currently attempting to identify and locate a suspect or suspects responsible for slashing the tires of numerous vehicles in parking lots throughout the city.

Please remain alert for suspicious activity around vehicles and in parking lots. If you have information that may help identify the person or persons responsible, please contact the Grants Pass Police Department using the non-emergency number.

📞 GPPD Non-Emergency: 541-450-6260

Thank you for helping us keep our community safe.

09/16/2026

Behind every officer in the field is someone making critical decisions, coordinating resources, and keeping the flow of information moving.

That person could be you.

As a 911 dispatcher, you’re there when someone needs help most. You’ll answer emergency and non-emergency calls, gather critical information, communicate with officers, and coordinate the response when every second matters.

As a telecommunicator with the Grants Pass Police Department, you are part of the response.

09/16/2026

Every shift is different. Every call matters. Every decision can make a difference.

The Grants Pass Police Department is looking for driven men and women ready to step forward, take on challenges, and serve the community with courage, integrity, and professionalism.

If you’re looking for a career that pushes you to grow, challenges you to think on your feet, and gives you the opportunity to make a real difference every day—this is your moment.

09/10/2026

The Grants Pass Police Department received a report of stolen gold from a local resident through a scam. Because of the value, the case was turned over to the Grants Pass Police Major Crimes Unit. Through a lengthy and complex investigation, Jing Chen, a 35-year-old male from California, was arrested for Conspiracy to Commit Theft.

The loss to the victim is more than $200,000 in gold.

The investigation is still active. No further information will be provided at this time.

We would like to remind citizens to be cautious when receiving suspicious phone calls, texts, or emails. It is important to take additional steps to verify the messages' contents before responding or taking action. Should you receive a fraudulent message, please report it to the Grants Pass Police Department at 541-450-6260.

09/08/2026

Today is K-9 Kick's seventh birthday! He's one of our department's faithful partners, out serving the public with his handler, Officer Lexi Pittman.

The Grants Pass Police Department has a long history with highly trained K-9 and Handler teams. Over the years, our K-9s have served with honor and dedication.

Our K-9s provide the following for the citizens of Grants Pass and our surrounding area:

Officer and public safety: A K-9 can help officers safely locate or apprehend dangerous suspects while reducing risk to officers and bystanders.

Crime deterrence: The presence of a trained K-9 can discourage criminal activity and provide an additional law-enforcement capability.

Community service: K-9 demonstrations, school visits, and community events are always a popular hit.

Happy Birthday Kick!

09/03/2026

******* UPDATE

Law enforcement in Jackson County located David Sparks, who was previously reported missing from Grants Pass. Unfortunately, he was found deceased.

At this time, there is no indication of foul play or other suspicious circumstances.

The next of kin has been advised of Mr. Sparks' passing. The Grants Pass Police Department extends condolences to his family and loved ones.

********

Missing & Endangered Person Advisory

The Grants Pass Police Department is requesting the community’s assistance in locating missing and endangered resident David Lee Sparks (74) of Grants Pass.

Mr. Sparks was last seen at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 195 Terry Lane, where he asked a relative for gas money for his truck. When he had not returned home by 5:30 p.m., family members became concerned.

Mr. Sparks is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and is currently without his required medication, which places him at increased risk. He also experiences rapid memory loss, making it urgent that he be located quickly.

Description of David Lee Sparks:
• 6’1” tall, approximately 132 lbs
• Long shoulder length gray hair
• Long gray beard & wears metal frame bi-focal glasses
• Common attire includes an American flag cowboy hat, suspenders, and blue jeans

Vehicle Information:
• 2004 light gray Ford F 150 extended cab
• Oregon license plate 475 BJH

Anyone who has seen Mr. Sparks or has information regarding his whereabouts is asked to immediately contact the Grants Pass Police Department at (541-450-6260) or call 911 if he appears to be in danger.

08/31/2026

Case Update: 2026-00029322

On August 26, 2026, shortly before 10:00 a.m., officers from the Grants Pass Police Department were dispatched to a report of a physical disturbance near the Anne Basker Auditorium in the 600 block of Sixth Street. It was reported that individuals were physically fighting in the street. Upon initial investigation, officers found that two adult males had been involved in an altercation; however, statements from the involved parties and witnesses were inconsistent.

A citizen video showing a portion of the incident was circulated online and reviewed by officers. Knowing that additional videos might exist that captured the full altercation, no arrests were made that day pending a thorough investigation.

After obtaining and reviewing additional video evidence, officers were able to assess the entire incident. Based on this review, probable cause was established for the arrest of both men on charges of harassment and disorderly conduct. David T. Haury (39) of Grants Pass and Edgar M. Pelfrey (62) of Grants Pass were arrested and lodged at the Josephine County Jail on August 31, 2026.

This incident occurred during a protest event and involved individuals with opposing viewpoints, contributing to a highly charged atmosphere. The Grants Pass Police Department appreciates the community’s patience as officers worked to gather all available information and fully understand what occurred prior to making an arrest.

No further information will be released at this time.

08/28/2026

The Grants Pass Police Department is seeking qualified, dedicated, and community-oriented individuals to join our team as Police Officers.

A career with the Grants Pass Police Department offers the opportunity to serve our community, uphold the law, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the safety and quality of life of the residents we serve.

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate integrity, professionalism, sound judgment, and a commitment to public service.

If you are ready to serve Grants Pass and pursue a rewarding career in law enforcement, we encourage you to apply.

08/17/2026

On Saturday, August 15, 2026, shortly after 3:30 a.m., Grants Pass Police received a report of a physical fight involving several people in the 800 block of NE A Street. Grants Pass Police officers responded to the area to investigate.

Officers learned that two victims had sustained injuries after being struck with a crowbar and were requesting medical assistance. Grants Pass Police detectives were called to the scene to assist with the investigation.

During the initial response, officers developed probable cause to arrest two Grants Pass residents: Samantha Fillmore (30) and Jeremy Whelchel (45). Fillmore was taken into custody without incident. Whelchel was believed to be hiding in a nearby apartment. Officers maintained containment of the apartment until a search warrant was obtained and executed several hours later.

Upon serving the warrant, officers located Whelchel inside the residence and took him into custody. Both Fillmore and Whelchel were lodged at the Josephine County Jail on charges of Assault II, Assault III, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.