What Turned Five Separate Cases Into One Investigation?

It is not often you hear about a It is not often you hear about a modern-day serial killer case because modern-day serial killer case because modern-day serial killer case because between DNA and digital forensics, it is between DNA and digital forensics, it is between DNA and digital forensics, it is so much harder to get away with a string so much harder to get away with a string so much harder to get away with a string of homicides and not get caught. But, of homicides and not get caught. But, of homicides and not get caught. But, officials say a man in Oregon did just officials say a man in Oregon did just officials say a man in Oregon did just that, leading to one of the most that, leading to one of the most that, leading to one of the most complicated investigations they have complicated investigations they have complicated investigations they have ever been a part of, ever been a part of, ever been a part of, >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> and it is nowhere near over. The victims >> and it is nowhere near over. The victims >> and it is nowhere near over. The victims are known as the Portland five after a are known as the Portland five after a are known as the Portland five after a fifth indictment was just recently fifth indictment was just recently fifth indictment was just recently announced. But, the reality is that announced. But, the reality is that announced. But, the reality is that number has the potential [music] to grow number has the potential [music] to grow number has the potential [music] to grow as the open investigation continues to as the open investigation continues to as the open investigation continues to unfold. This is something that we are unfold. This is something that we are unfold. This is something that we are quite literally watching happen in real quite literally watching happen in real quite literally watching happen in real time. So, let me tell you what you need time. So, let me tell you what you need time. So, let me tell you what you need to know through the eyes of the victims' to know through the eyes of the victims' to know through the eyes of the victims' families. I'm Briana Whitney, and this families. I'm Briana Whitney, and this families. I'm Briana Whitney, and this is Crime Junkie in the headlines [music] is Crime Junkie in the headlines [music] is Crime Junkie in the headlines [music] about the alleged serial killer, Jesse about the alleged serial killer, Jesse about the alleged serial killer, Jesse Lee Calhoun. Let me take you back to just before Let me take you back to just before Christmas 2022. What should have been a Christmas 2022. What should have been a Christmas 2022. What should have been a time of holiday joy and celebration for time of holiday joy and celebration for time of holiday joy and celebration for the Smith family was abruptly cut short. the Smith family was abruptly cut short. the Smith family was abruptly cut short. It was Melissa Smith's worst nightmare. It was Melissa Smith's worst nightmare. It was Melissa Smith's worst nightmare. Her 22-year-old daughter, had seemingly Her 22-year-old daughter, had seemingly Her 22-year-old daughter, had seemingly just vanished, and by that point it had just vanished, and by that point it had just vanished, and by that point it had been weeks since they gotten a hold of been weeks since they gotten a hold of been weeks since they gotten a hold of her. And as they inched closer and her. And as they inched closer and her. And as they inched closer and closer to Christmas, they knew something closer to Christmas, they knew something closer to Christmas, they knew something was wrong. So, on December 22nd, they was wrong. So, on December 22nd, they was wrong. So, on December 22nd, they finally reported her missing to Gresham finally reported her missing to Gresham finally reported her missing to Gresham police in Oregon. That's just east of police in Oregon. That's just east of police in Oregon. That's just east of Portland. And there was an important Portland. And there was an important Portland. And there was an important detail Kristen's mom shared when she detail Kristen's mom shared when she detail Kristen's mom shared when she made the report. Kristen had been in an made the report. Kristen had been in an made the report. Kristen had been in an abusive relationship in the past, so abusive relationship in the past, so abusive relationship in the past, so they worried maybe that had something to they worried maybe that had something to they worried maybe that had something to do with her absence. [music] Maybe she do with her absence. [music] Maybe she do with her absence. [music] Maybe she was missing but alive, just being was missing but alive, just being was missing but alive, just being prevented from contacting [music] them.

prevented from contacting [music] them. prevented from contacting [music] them. And police were helping, too. They were And police were helping, too. They were And police were helping, too. They were putting out press releases and flyers putting out press releases and flyers putting out press releases and flyers about her disappearance. They kept her about her disappearance. They kept her about her disappearance. They kept her name and the case in the spotlight, but name and the case in the spotlight, but name and the case in the spotlight, but the real boots on the ground searching the real boots on the ground searching the real boots on the ground searching was done by Melissa herself, who was done by Melissa herself, who was done by Melissa herself, who dedicated the next couple months to dedicated the next couple months to dedicated the next couple months to searching for her daughter. She went searching for her daughter. She went searching for her daughter. She went total boots on the ground detective total boots on the ground detective total boots on the ground detective style, literally made the calls herself, style, literally made the calls herself, style, literally made the calls herself, researched anything and everything she researched anything and everything she researched anything and everything she could, and organized ground searches. could, and organized ground searches. could, and organized ground searches. But, no matter where she turned or who But, no matter where she turned or who But, no matter where she turned or who she turned to, there just seemed to be she turned to, there just seemed to be she turned to, there just seemed to be no answers at all. Until no answers at all. Until no answers at all. Until February 19th, 2023. That's when Melissa February 19th, 2023. That's when Melissa February 19th, 2023. That's when Melissa got a call from police, but it wasn't got a call from police, but it wasn't got a call from police, but it wasn't from Gresham PD. It was Portland PD on from Gresham PD. It was Portland PD on from Gresham PD. It was Portland PD on the other end because they had found her the other end because they had found her the other end because they had found her daughter's remains in the woods of a daughter's remains in the woods of a daughter's remains in the woods of a South Portland neighborhood. Kristen's South Portland neighborhood. Kristen's South Portland neighborhood. Kristen's mom had no idea how she'd ended up where mom had no idea how she'd ended up where mom had no idea how she'd ended up where she did, and police had little info at she did, and police had little info at she did, and police had little info at that point to share. They knew enough to that point to share. They knew enough to that point to share. They knew enough to tell her it was a homicide tell her it was a homicide tell her it was a homicide investigation, but they had no leads on investigation, but they had no leads on investigation, but they had no leads on who [music] killed her. What Kristen's who [music] killed her. What Kristen's who [music] killed her. What Kristen's mom was completely unprepared for, while mom was completely unprepared for, while mom was completely unprepared for, while she was grieving no less, was what she was grieving no less, was what she was grieving no less, was what happened next. [music] happened next. [music] happened next. [music] April 24th, just two months after April 24th, just two months after April 24th, just two months after Kristen's body was found, the remains of Kristen's body was found, the remains of Kristen's body was found, the remains of 24-year-old Charity Perry were found in 24-year-old Charity Perry were found in 24-year-old Charity Perry were found in a culvert near Ainsworth State Park.

a culvert near Ainsworth State Park. a culvert near Ainsworth State Park. That was about 30 miles east of where That was about 30 miles east of where That was about 30 miles east of where Kristen's body was discovered. Now, it Kristen's body was discovered. Now, it Kristen's body was discovered. Now, it [music] was highly possible these two [music] was highly possible these two [music] was highly possible these two cases were completely unrelated, but it cases were completely unrelated, but it cases were completely unrelated, but it was emotionally triggering for Kristen's was emotionally triggering for Kristen's was emotionally triggering for Kristen's family. They still had no answers on family. They still had no answers on family. They still had no answers on what actually happened or how Kristen what actually happened or how Kristen what actually happened or how Kristen died, and these victims were similar in died, and these victims were similar in died, and these victims were similar in ages, so it was easy to think maybe they ages, so it was easy to think maybe they ages, so it was easy to think maybe they were connected. Except officials shut were connected. Except officials shut were connected. Except officials shut that down. As far as they were that down. As far as they were that down. As far as they were concerned, these were two separate concerned, these were two separate concerned, these were two separate cases, and they had two separate cases, and they had two separate cases, and they had two separate investigations. Then, just one week investigations. Then, just one week investigations. Then, just one week later, the unraveling of discoveries later, the unraveling of discoveries later, the unraveling of discoveries began that could not be described as began that could not be described as began that could not be described as coincidental, at least not to Kristen coincidental, at least not to Kristen coincidental, at least not to Kristen Smith's family. April 30th, another Smith's family. April 30th, another Smith's family. April 30th, another woman's body is found about 70 miles woman's body is found about 70 miles woman's body is found about 70 miles southwest of Portland. She was southwest of Portland. She was southwest of Portland. She was 31-year-old Bridget Webster. And then 31-year-old Bridget Webster. And then 31-year-old Bridget Webster. And then one week after that, on May 7th, one week after that, on May 7th, one week after that, on May 7th, 22-year-old Ashley Rial was found by a 22-year-old Ashley Rial was found by a 22-year-old Ashley Rial was found by a fisherman at a pond south of Portland. fisherman at a pond south of Portland. fisherman at a pond south of Portland. So, you had four women in their 20s and So, you had four women in their 20s and So, you had four women in their 20s and 30s found in the course of just over two 30s found in the course of just over two 30s found in the course of just over two months. That's enough to warrant some months. That's enough to warrant some months. That's enough to warrant some serious concern in and of itself. But, serious concern in and of itself. But, serious concern in and of itself. But, there's something I haven't told you yet there's something I haven't told you yet there's something I haven't told you yet that was adding to the mystery and fear.

that was adding to the mystery and fear. that was adding to the mystery and fear. Another investigation into the death of Another investigation into the death of Another investigation into the death of 32-year-old Joanna Speaks had been 32-year-old Joanna Speaks had been 32-year-old Joanna Speaks had been unfolding at the exact same time in unfolding at the exact same time in unfolding at the exact same time in Ridgefield, Washington, which was the Ridgefield, Washington, which was the Ridgefield, Washington, which was the southernmost part of the [music] state southernmost part of the [music] state southernmost part of the [music] state and not far from Portland. And though and not far from Portland. And though and not far from Portland. And though none of the women seemingly had known none of the women seemingly had known none of the women seemingly had known connections to one another, by early connections to one another, by early connections to one another, by early June 2023, there was so much June 2023, there was so much June 2023, there was so much speculation, so much fear in the speculation, so much fear in the speculation, so much fear in the community that police were prompted to community that police were prompted to community that police were prompted to make a pretty definitive statement. make a pretty definitive statement. make a pretty definitive statement. [music] [music] [music] These deaths were not connected. The These deaths were not connected. The These deaths were not connected. The Portland Police Bureau told Fox 12 Portland Police Bureau told Fox 12 Portland Police Bureau told Fox 12 Oregon they had no reason to believe Oregon they had no reason to believe Oregon they had no reason to believe these cases were related. In fact, they these cases were related. In fact, they these cases were related. In fact, they said they were in contact with the other said they were in contact with the other said they were in contact with the other agencies, but said they were not agencies, but said they were not agencies, but said they were not participating in those investigations. I participating in those investigations. I participating in those investigations. I don't know if that made people feel don't know if that made people feel don't know if that made people feel better or worse, but these families better or worse, but these families better or worse, but these families wanted answers. So, just like Kristin wanted answers. So, just like Kristin wanted answers. So, just like Kristin Smith's family had taken to social media Smith's family had taken to social media Smith's family had taken to social media and public advocacy, the families of and public advocacy, the families of and public advocacy, the families of Charity Perry, Ashley Real, Bridget Charity Perry, Ashley Real, Bridget Charity Perry, Ashley Real, Bridget Webster, and Joanna Speaks were trying Webster, and Joanna Speaks were trying Webster, and Joanna Speaks were trying to put any pieces together for to put any pieces together for to put any pieces together for themselves. And Joanna's sister, Ariel themselves. And Joanna's sister, Ariel themselves. And Joanna's sister, Ariel Hamby, actually did uncover some [music] Hamby, actually did uncover some [music] Hamby, actually did uncover some [music] connections. She and her friend connections. She and her friend connections. She and her friend recognized Bridget Webster from a local recognized Bridget Webster from a local recognized Bridget Webster from a local gas station. And as she dug in more, she gas station. And as she dug in more, she gas station. And as she dug in more, she learned that Joanna and Bridget had learned that Joanna and Bridget had learned that Joanna and Bridget had actually gone to grade school together actually gone to grade school together actually gone to grade school together and had recently reconnected. That and had recently reconnected. That and had recently reconnected. That didn't feel coincidental, but it didn't didn't feel coincidental, but it didn't didn't feel coincidental, but it didn't explain who or how or why they were explain who or how or why they were explain who or how or why they were killed. Then, just weeks later, killed. Then, just weeks later, killed. Then, just weeks later, officials completely changed their tune officials completely changed their tune officials completely changed their tune on the entire investigation and finally, on the entire investigation and finally, on the entire investigation and finally, [music] [music] [music] a major crack in the case.

In July 2023, a bunch of law enforcement In July 2023, a bunch of law enforcement agencies came together and put out a new agencies came together and put out a new agencies came together and put out a new press release. The headline alone had press release. The headline alone had press release. The headline alone had two major bombshells in it. It read, two major bombshells in it. It read, two major bombshells in it. It read, "Information links four victims in "Information links four victims in "Information links four victims in ongoing death investigations. Person of ongoing death investigations. Person of ongoing death investigations. Person of interest identified." Talk about interest identified." Talk about interest identified." Talk about whiplash. The police had literally just whiplash. The police had literally just whiplash. The police had literally just said a few weeks ago they were not said a few weeks ago they were not said a few weeks ago they were not connected. So, what changed? And connected. So, what changed? And connected. So, what changed? And officials didn't really say. They just officials didn't really say. They just officials didn't really say. They just wrote in their press release they'd been wrote in their press release they'd been wrote in their press release they'd been doing interviews in all of these cases doing interviews in all of these cases doing interviews in all of these cases and that led to a person of interest and that led to a person of interest and that led to a person of interest linked to four victims, but they didn't linked to four victims, but they didn't linked to four victims, but they didn't say how. And before I get to the person say how. And before I get to the person say how. And before I get to the person of interest, something else stuck out to of interest, something else stuck out to of interest, something else stuck out to all the families here. Investigators all the families here. Investigators all the families here. Investigators were not linking Joanna Speaks' homicide were not linking Joanna Speaks' homicide were not linking Joanna Speaks' homicide in Washington. Her killer still had not in Washington. Her killer still had not in Washington. Her killer still had not been identified, but it seemed that been identified, but it seemed that been identified, but it seemed that detectives kind of ruled her out as detectives kind of ruled her out as detectives kind of ruled her out as being part of this. So, that means being part of this. So, that means being part of this. So, that means police had some sort of evidence or link police had some sort of evidence or link police had some sort of evidence or link that pointed same person being involved that pointed same person being involved that pointed same person being involved in the deaths of Kristin Smith, Charity in the deaths of Kristin Smith, Charity in the deaths of Kristin Smith, Charity Perry, Bridget Webster, and Ashley Riel. Perry, Bridget Webster, and Ashley Riel. Perry, Bridget Webster, and Ashley Riel. And while in the official press release And while in the official press release And while in the official press release they didn't come out and say who it was, they didn't come out and say who it was, they didn't come out and say who it was, it took news stations in Portland it took news stations in Portland it took news stations in Portland approximately zero minutes to contact approximately zero minutes to contact approximately zero minutes to contact their sources and immediately get a their sources and immediately get a their sources and immediately get a name, Jesse Lee Calhoun. Jesse Lee name, Jesse Lee Calhoun. Jesse Lee name, Jesse Lee Calhoun. Jesse Lee Calhoun was not really a known entity Calhoun was not really a known entity Calhoun was not really a known entity for those involved and the investigators for those involved and the investigators for those involved and the investigators were putting out very little info at were putting out very little info at were putting out very little info at all. I mean, no mention of what evidence all. I mean, no mention of what evidence all. I mean, no mention of what evidence led to Calhoun, no mention of the cause led to Calhoun, no mention of the cause led to Calhoun, no mention of the cause of deaths of the four women, no mention of deaths of the four women, no mention of deaths of the four women, no mention of really any details. And it wasn't of really any details. And it wasn't of really any details. And it wasn't just the public who wasn't getting info, just the public who wasn't getting info, just the public who wasn't getting info, the victims' families weren't either.

the victims' families weren't either. the victims' families weren't either. Charity Perry's mom told the Associated Charity Perry's mom told the Associated Charity Perry's mom told the Associated Press that she was in the dark about a Press that she was in the dark about a Press that she was in the dark about a lot, just trying to trust the police lot, just trying to trust the police lot, just trying to trust the police were doing their jobs. And Kristin were doing their jobs. And Kristin were doing their jobs. And Kristin Smith's mom told KATU she was in shock, Smith's mom told KATU she was in shock, Smith's mom told KATU she was in shock, just hoping they got the right person. just hoping they got the right person. just hoping they got the right person. Well, they might not have known who Well, they might not have known who Well, they might not have known who Calhoun was, but he was no stranger to Calhoun was, but he was no stranger to Calhoun was, but he was no stranger to police. In fact, his rap sheet in Oregon police. In fact, his rap sheet in Oregon police. In fact, his rap sheet in Oregon is extensive. It dates back all the way is extensive. It dates back all the way is extensive. It dates back all the way to 2003 with felony after felony, stolen to 2003 with felony after felony, stolen to 2003 with felony after felony, stolen cars, burglaries, and multiple violent cars, burglaries, and multiple violent cars, burglaries, and multiple violent assaults. So, let's call this what it assaults. So, let's call this what it assaults. So, let's call this what it is. This is a documented dangerous guy. is. This is a documented dangerous guy. is. This is a documented dangerous guy. So, that's going to make what I'm about So, that's going to make what I'm about So, that's going to make what I'm about to tell you even more infuriating. to tell you even more infuriating. to tell you even more infuriating. According to court records and media According to court records and media According to court records and media reports, in 2019 Jesse Calhoun was reports, in 2019 Jesse Calhoun was reports, in 2019 Jesse Calhoun was arrested after he tried to choke a K9 arrested after he tried to choke a K9 arrested after he tried to choke a K9 police officer and then assaulted a police officer and then assaulted a police officer and then assaulted a human officer who were there to serve an human officer who were there to serve an human officer who were there to serve an arrest warrant for him. Now, he ended up arrest warrant for him. Now, he ended up arrest warrant for him. Now, he ended up being convicted in that case for a slew being convicted in that case for a slew being convicted in that case for a slew of charges including the assaults, and of charges including the assaults, and of charges including the assaults, and his sentence was 50 months. So, for his sentence was 50 months. So, for his sentence was 50 months. So, for those of you like me bad at quick math, those of you like me bad at quick math, those of you like me bad at quick math, just over 4 years. And his release date just over 4 years. And his release date just over 4 years. And his release date was set for June 30th, 2022.

was set for June 30th, 2022. was set for June 30th, 2022. Except, [music] that's not when he was Except, [music] that's not when he was Except, [music] that's not when he was released. I know it's hard to remember released. I know it's hard to remember released. I know it's hard to remember anything else that happened in 2020 anything else that happened in 2020 anything else that happened in 2020 because of the pandemic, but you might because of the pandemic, but you might because of the pandemic, but you might remember or at least have heard about remember or at least have heard about remember or at least have heard about these horrific wildfires in Oregon that these horrific wildfires in Oregon that these horrific wildfires in Oregon that happened that year, too. They were the happened that year, too. They were the happened that year, too. They were the worst in state history. So, to help worst in state history. So, to help worst in state history. So, to help fight those, some inmates were put on fight those, some inmates were put on fight those, some inmates were put on the fighting crews. Calhoun was the fighting crews. Calhoun was the fighting crews. Calhoun was [clears throat] one of them. And then [clears throat] one of them. And then [clears throat] one of them. And then came a pretty wild media announcement in came a pretty wild media announcement in came a pretty wild media announcement in 2021. Governor Kate Brown was commuting 2021. Governor Kate Brown was commuting 2021. Governor Kate Brown was commuting the sentences of 41 inmates for helping the sentences of 41 inmates for helping the sentences of 41 inmates for helping with those fires, which knocked about a with those fires, which knocked about a with those fires, which knocked about a year off all of their sentences. You year off all of their sentences. You year off all of their sentences. You guessed it, Calhoun was one of them. guessed it, Calhoun was one of them. guessed it, Calhoun was one of them. Now, I don't know how fighting fires was Now, I don't know how fighting fires was Now, I don't know how fighting fires was enough to look at Calhoun and say, "This enough to look at Calhoun and say, "This enough to look at Calhoun and say, "This person deserves to be out early." when person deserves to be out early." when person deserves to be out early." when he has a history of super violent he has a history of super violent he has a history of super violent offenses. But, that's what happened. So, offenses. But, that's what happened. So, offenses. But, that's what happened. So, he was released July 22nd, 2021, which he was released July 22nd, 2021, which he was released July 22nd, 2021, which was a year before he should have been. was a year before he should have been. was a year before he should have been. And absolutely no one's surprise, And absolutely no one's surprise, And absolutely no one's surprise, Calhoun was arrested yet again in June Calhoun was arrested yet again in June Calhoun was arrested yet again in June of 2023 for parole violation, according of 2023 for parole violation, according of 2023 for parole violation, according to media reports. They reported he to media reports. They reported he to media reports. They reported he actually jumped into the Willamette actually jumped into the Willamette actually jumped into the Willamette River to try and escape. That, of River to try and escape. That, of River to try and escape. That, of course, did not work out well for him.

course, did not work out well for him. course, did not work out well for him. So, once he was back in custody, the So, once he was back in custody, the So, once he was back in custody, the governor's office received a request to governor's office received a request to governor's office received a request to revoke his commutation. Thank God. And revoke his commutation. Thank God. And revoke his commutation. Thank God. And that's when he was named an official that's when he was named an official that's when he was named an official person of interest in the deaths of the person of interest in the deaths of the person of interest in the deaths of the four women. It is pretty perplexing in four women. It is pretty perplexing in four women. It is pretty perplexing in the worst way how that all unfolded. the worst way how that all unfolded. the worst way how that all unfolded. Kristin Smith's mom was publicly very Kristin Smith's mom was publicly very Kristin Smith's mom was publicly very upset and rightfully so. In a Fox News upset and rightfully so. In a Fox News upset and rightfully so. In a Fox News article, she said she had a lot of article, she said she had a lot of article, she said she had a lot of questions and concerns about the questions and concerns about the questions and concerns about the governor's decision to let Calhoun out governor's decision to let Calhoun out governor's decision to let Calhoun out early and basically called for police to early and basically called for police to early and basically called for police to take things much more seriously when it take things much more seriously when it take things much more seriously when it comes to missing persons cases. What comes to missing persons cases. What comes to missing persons cases. What Kristin's mom said about being taken Kristin's mom said about being taken Kristin's mom said about being taken seriously only seemed to raise more seriously only seemed to raise more seriously only seemed to raise more concern when someone else came forward concern when someone else came forward concern when someone else came forward with pretty shocking info. The public with pretty shocking info. The public with pretty shocking info. The public was about to learn the first major clue was about to learn the first major clue was about to learn the first major clue in the case, but not from any law in the case, but not from any law in the case, but not from any law enforcement officer or any detective, enforcement officer or any detective, enforcement officer or any detective, but from victim Ashley Real's father. Not long after Calhoun was named a Not long after Calhoun was named a person of interest, Jose Real, Ashley's person of interest, Jose Real, Ashley's person of interest, Jose Real, Ashley's dad, revealed something to the dad, revealed something to the dad, revealed something to the Associated Press. Remember, Ashley's Associated Press. Remember, Ashley's Associated Press. Remember, Ashley's remains had been found by a fisherman in remains had been found by a fisherman in remains had been found by a fisherman in May 2023? Well, when Jesse Calhoun was May 2023? Well, when Jesse Calhoun was May 2023? Well, when Jesse Calhoun was named a person of interest, Jose Real named a person of interest, Jose Real named a person of interest, Jose Real was beside himself. He absolutely knew was beside himself. He absolutely knew was beside himself. He absolutely knew that name.

that name. that name. He told the AP that he actually called He told the AP that he actually called He told the AP that he actually called police in November 2022 after his police in November 2022 after his police in November 2022 after his daughter Ashley came to his house crying daughter Ashley came to his house crying daughter Ashley came to his house crying and said she had been choked by Jesse and said she had been choked by Jesse and said she had been choked by Jesse Calhoun. And Jose could actually see the Calhoun. And Jose could actually see the Calhoun. And Jose could actually see the marks on her throat. So, he took her to marks on her throat. So, he took her to marks on her throat. So, he took her to the hospital and they filed a police the hospital and they filed a police the hospital and they filed a police report. He said Portland police wanted report. He said Portland police wanted report. He said Portland police wanted Ashley's help in actually finding Ashley's help in actually finding Ashley's help in actually finding Calhoun, but she told him she was scared Calhoun, but she told him she was scared Calhoun, but she told him she was scared to do that. The case ended up being to do that. The case ended up being to do that. The case ended up being transferred to the Multnomah County transferred to the Multnomah County transferred to the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, and Jose said that's Sheriff's Office, and Jose said that's Sheriff's Office, and Jose said that's when everything went radio silent. Jose when everything went radio silent. Jose when everything went radio silent. Jose told the AP he never heard back from the told the AP he never heard back from the told the AP he never heard back from the Sheriff's Office at all, even though he Sheriff's Office at all, even though he Sheriff's Office at all, even though he and his wife kept calling over and over and his wife kept calling over and over and his wife kept calling over and over again. Six months later, his daughter again. Six months later, his daughter again. Six months later, his daughter was found dead. It was incredibly was found dead. It was incredibly was found dead. It was incredibly haunting for the Real family. I mean, haunting for the Real family. I mean, haunting for the Real family. I mean, they tried. Ashley tried before her they tried. Ashley tried before her they tried. Ashley tried before her death, death, death, and it didn't work. and it didn't work. and it didn't work. So, the public now knew there was at So, the public now knew there was at So, the public now knew there was at least some kind of previous connection least some kind of previous connection least some kind of previous connection and contact with Ashley Real and Jesse and contact with Ashley Real and Jesse and contact with Ashley Real and Jesse Calhoun, but there were still a lot of Calhoun, but there were still a lot of Calhoun, but there were still a lot of questions about the other victims. And questions about the other victims. And questions about the other victims. And that's when an unexpected person shares that's when an unexpected person shares that's when an unexpected person shares a whole lot more. While the victims' a whole lot more. While the victims' a whole lot more. While the victims' families were talking to local and families were talking to local and families were talking to local and national media about the case that national media about the case that national media about the case that summer, someone with a lot of info went summer, someone with a lot of info went summer, someone with a lot of info went on a Portland YouTuber's channel.

on a Portland YouTuber's channel. on a Portland YouTuber's channel. That someone was Jesse Calhoun's That someone was Jesse Calhoun's That someone was Jesse Calhoun's girlfriend, who was with him at the time girlfriend, who was with him at the time girlfriend, who was with him at the time of his arrest. The arrest where he tried of his arrest. The arrest where he tried of his arrest. The arrest where he tried to jump in the river and escape. Her to jump in the river and escape. Her to jump in the river and escape. Her name was Krista Hein Steiner. She went name was Krista Hein Steiner. She went name was Krista Hein Steiner. She went on Valli Rae's channel and talked for on Valli Rae's channel and talked for on Valli Rae's channel and talked for more than an hour about everything she more than an hour about everything she more than an hour about everything she allegedly saw and knew. So, we knew from allegedly saw and knew. So, we knew from allegedly saw and knew. So, we knew from Ashley's dad that Calhoun had reportedly Ashley's dad that Calhoun had reportedly Ashley's dad that Calhoun had reportedly choked her. But, Krista said Ashley Rael choked her. But, Krista said Ashley Rael choked her. But, Krista said Ashley Rael and Jesse Calhoun had actually been in and Jesse Calhoun had actually been in and Jesse Calhoun had actually been in an on-and-off-again sexual relationship an on-and-off-again sexual relationship an on-and-off-again sexual relationship for about a year from December 2021 to for about a year from December 2021 to for about a year from December 2021 to 2022. So, that means that would have 2022. So, that means that would have 2022. So, that means that would have ended 1 month after the choking incident ended 1 month after the choking incident ended 1 month after the choking incident and just a couple months before police and just a couple months before police and just a couple months before police believe she was killed. But, it wasn't believe she was killed. But, it wasn't believe she was killed. But, it wasn't just Ashley that Krista knew something just Ashley that Krista knew something just Ashley that Krista knew something about. Remember, I said police haven't about. Remember, I said police haven't about. Remember, I said police haven't revealed any evidence at all in this revealed any evidence at all in this revealed any evidence at all in this case so far? Well, it seems if Krista's case so far? Well, it seems if Krista's case so far? Well, it seems if Krista's account of things is correct, there may account of things is correct, there may account of things is correct, there may be some digital evidence that exists. be some digital evidence that exists. be some digital evidence that exists. Krista claimed she had seen an explicit Krista claimed she had seen an explicit Krista claimed she had seen an explicit video of a woman on Jesse Calhoun's video of a woman on Jesse Calhoun's video of a woman on Jesse Calhoun's phone. Now, at the time when she saw it, phone. Now, at the time when she saw it, phone. Now, at the time when she saw it, she had no clue who this person was. she had no clue who this person was. she had no clue who this person was. But, she said once she actually saw the But, she said once she actually saw the But, she said once she actually saw the victim's pictures on the news, she victim's pictures on the news, she victim's pictures on the news, she realized it was Bridget Webster in that realized it was Bridget Webster in that realized it was Bridget Webster in that video. She was the one found nearly 70 video. She was the one found nearly 70 video. She was the one found nearly 70 miles away from Portland. But, she had miles away from Portland. But, she had miles away from Portland. But, she had no idea how Calhoun was connected to no idea how Calhoun was connected to no idea how Calhoun was connected to Kristen Smith or Charity Perry. We still Kristen Smith or Charity Perry. We still Kristen Smith or Charity Perry. We still don't know this 3 years later and police don't know this 3 years later and police don't know this 3 years later and police have not confirmed any of Krista's have not confirmed any of Krista's have not confirmed any of Krista's claims. This all kind of felt like a claims. This all kind of felt like a claims. This all kind of felt like a hurry up and wait situation to the hurry up and wait situation to the hurry up and wait situation to the families because they knew Calhoun was families because they knew Calhoun was families because they knew Calhoun was in custody, but this whole time he still in custody, but this whole time he still in custody, but this whole time he still wasn't being charged and they weren't wasn't being charged and they weren't wasn't being charged and they weren't being given much info as to what was

being given much info as to what was being given much info as to what was actually happening behind the scenes. actually happening behind the scenes. actually happening behind the scenes. So, things just went quiet for a while. So, things just went quiet for a while. So, things just went quiet for a while. Until November 2023. Remember how Until November 2023. Remember how Until November 2023. Remember how detectives had excluded Joanna Speaks' detectives had excluded Joanna Speaks' detectives had excluded Joanna Speaks' case from the rest? She was the one case from the rest? She was the one case from the rest? She was the one found dead in Washington. Well, in found dead in Washington. Well, in found dead in Washington. Well, in November, authorities publicly announced November, authorities publicly announced November, authorities publicly announced her case was being transferred to her case was being transferred to her case was being transferred to Portland [music] because they believed Portland [music] because they believed Portland [music] because they believed she was actually killed in Portland she was actually killed in Portland she was actually killed in Portland before her remains were taken and left before her remains were taken and left before her remains were taken and left by that abandoned barn in Washington. by that abandoned barn in Washington. by that abandoned barn in Washington. Now, that is all officials said. There Now, that is all officials said. There Now, that is all officials said. There were no arrests yet, but Joanna's family were no arrests yet, but Joanna's family were no arrests yet, but Joanna's family told local media outlets they felt sure told local media outlets they felt sure told local media outlets they felt sure her case was connected to the others. I her case was connected to the others. I her case was connected to the others. I mean, how could it not be? And then, mean, how could it not be? And then, mean, how could it not be? And then, just as fast as that update felt like just as fast as that update felt like just as fast as that update felt like something was brewing, something was brewing, something was brewing, the investigation went dark and silent the investigation went dark and silent the investigation went dark and silent [music] [music] [music] again. again. again. The back and forth was impossible to The back and forth was impossible to The back and forth was impossible to process for these families. I mean, you process for these families. I mean, you process for these families. I mean, you get your hopes up, then nothing. [music] get your hopes up, then nothing. [music] get your hopes up, then nothing. [music] Get your hopes up again, nope, nothing Get your hopes up again, nope, nothing Get your hopes up again, nope, nothing more. Holidays came and went again with more. Holidays came and went again with more. Holidays came and went again with five families grieving loss and having five families grieving loss and having five families grieving loss and having no closure. If detectives were so sure no closure. If detectives were so sure no closure. If detectives were so sure that Jesse Calhoun was a person of that Jesse Calhoun was a person of that Jesse Calhoun was a person of interest, why was it taking so long to interest, why was it taking so long to interest, why was it taking so long to file any charges? Like, was it or was it file any charges? Like, was it or was it file any charges? Like, was it or was it not him who killed them? That's what the not him who killed them? That's what the not him who killed them? That's what the families wanted to know. And then families wanted to know. And then families wanted to know. And then finally, months later, in May of 2024, finally, months later, in May of 2024, finally, months later, in May of 2024, the major announcement they had been the major announcement they had been the major announcement they had been waiting for, an indictment. Jesse waiting for, an indictment. Jesse waiting for, an indictment. Jesse Calhoun was indicted by a grand jury and Calhoun was indicted by a grand jury and Calhoun was indicted by a grand jury and charged with multiple counts of charged with multiple counts of charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder and abuse of a second-degree murder and abuse of a second-degree murder and abuse of a corpse, but not for five victims, only corpse, but not for five victims, only corpse, but not for five victims, only for three. These charges were for the for three. These charges were for the for three. These charges were for the deaths of Charity Perry, Bridget deaths of Charity Perry, Bridget deaths of Charity Perry, Bridget Webster, and the Washington case, Joanna

Webster, and the Washington case, Joanna Webster, and the Washington case, Joanna Speaks. What happened to Kristen Smith Speaks. What happened to Kristen Smith Speaks. What happened to Kristen Smith and Ashley Rial? I mean, here you had and Ashley Rial? I mean, here you had and Ashley Rial? I mean, here you had Kristen's mom, Melissa, who had been Kristen's mom, Melissa, who had been Kristen's mom, Melissa, who had been fighting since day one for her daughter, fighting since day one for her daughter, fighting since day one for her daughter, the first in the string of deaths that the first in the string of deaths that the first in the string of deaths that police had publicly said were connected, police had publicly said were connected, police had publicly said were connected, and she wasn't included in this? I mean, and she wasn't included in this? I mean, and she wasn't included in this? I mean, devastating is really the only word that devastating is really the only word that devastating is really the only word that comes to mind. Kristen's mom didn't let comes to mind. Kristen's mom didn't let comes to mind. Kristen's mom didn't let that stop her though from supporting the that stop her though from supporting the that stop her though from supporting the other families. She actually went to other families. She actually went to other families. She actually went to Calhoun's arraignment in 2024. She stood Calhoun's arraignment in 2024. She stood Calhoun's arraignment in 2024. She stood by the other mothers and told local by the other mothers and told local by the other mothers and told local media after the hearing that it was a media after the hearing that it was a media after the hearing that it was a living nightmare having to go through living nightmare having to go through living nightmare having to go through all of this, but that it was super all of this, but that it was super all of this, but that it was super important for her to support the other important for her to support the other important for her to support the other families just as they had been there for families just as they had been there for families just as they had been there for her and Ashley's family to keep fighting her and Ashley's family to keep fighting her and Ashley's family to keep fighting for their truth and justice. Talk about for their truth and justice. Talk about for their truth and justice. Talk about strength. My God. strength. My God. strength. My God. And eventually, that did pay off. More And eventually, that did pay off. More And eventually, that did pay off. More than a year later, August 2025, another than a year later, August 2025, another than a year later, August 2025, another indictment for Calhoun. This time for indictment for Calhoun. This time for indictment for Calhoun. This time for the murder of Kristen Smith. Another the murder of Kristen Smith. Another the murder of Kristen Smith. Another second-degree murder charge and abuse of second-degree murder charge and abuse of second-degree murder charge and abuse of a corpse. You can imagine the absolute a corpse. You can imagine the absolute a corpse. You can imagine the absolute relief and combo of emotions for Melissa relief and combo of emotions for Melissa relief and combo of emotions for Melissa Smith after so many years of fighting.

Smith after so many years of fighting. Smith after so many years of fighting. She got up to the podium at the press She got up to the podium at the press She got up to the podium at the press conference with her other daughter, conference with her other daughter, conference with her other daughter, Haley, and they tried to put things into Haley, and they tried to put things into Haley, and they tried to put things into perspective for people. perspective for people. perspective for people. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> It had been 898 >> It had been 898 >> It had been 898 days since she found out her daughter days since she found out her daughter days since she found out her daughter was dead. Almost 1,000 days with no was dead. Almost 1,000 days with no was dead. Almost 1,000 days with no answers. Absolutely unfathomable. answers. Absolutely unfathomable. answers. Absolutely unfathomable. But questions swirled. How were there But questions swirled. How were there But questions swirled. How were there still no charges for Ashley Real's still no charges for Ashley Real's still no charges for Ashley Real's death? I mean, at least publicly, there death? I mean, at least publicly, there death? I mean, at least publicly, there seemed to be the most information about seemed to be the most information about seemed to be the most information about how she was connected to Calhoun in a how she was connected to Calhoun in a how she was connected to Calhoun in a literal documented assault case literal documented assault case literal documented assault case involving him from just months before involving him from just months before involving him from just months before she died. So, what were investigators she died. So, what were investigators she died. So, what were investigators missing? That kind of seemed to be and missing? That kind of seemed to be and missing? That kind of seemed to be and continues to be a really frustrating continues to be a really frustrating continues to be a really frustrating aspect of this case. You've got five aspect of this case. You've got five aspect of this case. You've got five victims, multiple indictments, a slew of victims, multiple indictments, a slew of victims, multiple indictments, a slew of some of the most serious charges, and some of the most serious charges, and some of the most serious charges, and yet no word from detectives on evidence yet no word from detectives on evidence yet no word from detectives on evidence [music] whatsoever. [music] whatsoever. [music] whatsoever. Why is that not publicly being said or Why is that not publicly being said or Why is that not publicly being said or available to see? I don't know. It could available to see? I don't know. It could available to see? I don't know. It could be that they just don't know the extent be that they just don't know the extent be that they just don't know the extent of how many victims could be out there of how many victims could be out there of how many victims could be out there and they don't want to compromise the and they don't want to compromise the and they don't want to compromise the chance of finding more. But also, how chance of finding more. But also, how chance of finding more. But also, how would people know what to come forward would people know what to come forward would people know what to come forward with on potential tips if they don't with on potential tips if they don't with on potential tips if they don't even know how Calhoun was connected to even know how Calhoun was connected to even know how Calhoun was connected to these deaths in the first place. So, these deaths in the first place. So, these deaths in the first place. So, here we are in 2026 and finally, the day here we are in 2026 and finally, the day here we are in 2026 and finally, the day the Real family had been waiting for the Real family had been waiting for the Real family had been waiting for happened.

happened. happened. Just recently in May of this year, Just recently in May of this year, Just recently in May of this year, officials held yet another press officials held yet another press officials held yet another press conference indicting Calhoun for Ashley conference indicting Calhoun for Ashley conference indicting Calhoun for Ashley Real's murder. Her mom, dad, and sister Real's murder. Her mom, dad, and sister Real's murder. Her mom, dad, and sister got up to the podium and gave such got up to the podium and gave such got up to the podium and gave such emotional and tearful accounts of emotional and tearful accounts of emotional and tearful accounts of finally getting to this day. They were finally getting to this day. They were finally getting to this day. They were honestly thinking this may never happen honestly thinking this may never happen honestly thinking this may never happen based on the way that things were going. based on the way that things were going. based on the way that things were going. They said they never lost faith, but They said they never lost faith, but They said they never lost faith, but three years was a damn long time to wait three years was a damn long time to wait three years was a damn long time to wait for their answers. for their answers. for their answers. Ashley's sister said the hardest part Ashley's sister said the hardest part Ashley's sister said the hardest part for her was watching her parents bury for her was watching her parents bury for her was watching her parents bury their own child, then having to watch their own child, then having to watch their own child, then having to watch the news stories about the Portland the news stories about the Portland the news stories about the Portland five, knowing Ashley was not part of five, knowing Ashley was not part of five, knowing Ashley was not part of that indictment until now. These that indictment until now. These that indictment until now. These families are exceptionally resilient and families are exceptionally resilient and families are exceptionally resilient and not afraid. [music] They have supported not afraid. [music] They have supported not afraid. [music] They have supported each other through thick and thin of each other through thick and thin of each other through thick and thin of this case, and I want to actually play this case, and I want to actually play this case, and I want to actually play you guys a clip from Charity Perry's mom you guys a clip from Charity Perry's mom you guys a clip from Charity Perry's mom at one of the indictment press at one of the indictment press at one of the indictment press conferences because, well, you'll hear conferences because, well, you'll hear conferences because, well, you'll hear why. This is directed to one person and why. This is directed to one person and why. This is directed to one person and one person only, Jesse Calhoun. one person only, Jesse Calhoun. one person only, Jesse Calhoun. >> You are not the smartest person in the >> You are not the smartest person in the >> You are not the smartest person in the room. room. room. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> You think that you are, and maybe the >> You think that you are, and maybe the >> You think that you are, and maybe the day of your crime, you were. But, you're day of your crime, you were. But, you're day of your crime, you were. But, you're no longer in your room. You're in my no longer in your room. You're in my no longer in your room. You're in my room, and I know a lot of smart people, room, and I know a lot of smart people, room, and I know a lot of smart people, and there is no way you will keep going and there is no way you will keep going and there is no way you will keep going and not be caught.

and not be caught. and not be caught. It doesn't matter if it's 2 days, It doesn't matter if it's 2 days, It doesn't matter if it's 2 days, 2 weeks, 2 months, 2 centuries. The 2 weeks, 2 months, 2 centuries. The 2 weeks, 2 months, 2 centuries. The world will find you. world will find you. world will find you. >> You could hear a pin drop in [music] the >> You could hear a pin drop in [music] the >> You could hear a pin drop in [music] the room when she said that. room when she said that. room when she said that. Now, I know what you're probably Now, I know what you're probably Now, I know what you're probably thinking, are there more victims? You thinking, are there more victims? You thinking, are there more victims? You bet. Detectives were asked that at the bet. Detectives were asked that at the bet. Detectives were asked that at the last press conference. They would not last press conference. They would not last press conference. They would not confirm if there are or aren't more confirm if there are or aren't more confirm if there are or aren't more victims, but they did vow to leave no victims, but they did vow to leave no victims, but they did vow to leave no stone unturned. For the families stone unturned. For the families stone unturned. For the families involved in this though, they fear there involved in this though, they fear there involved in this though, they fear there could be more. could be more. could be more. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> And there's something I haven't told you >> And there's something I haven't told you >> And there's something I haven't told you guys yet. I specifically left this out guys yet. I specifically left this out guys yet. I specifically left this out until you knew everything else in this until you knew everything else in this until you knew everything else in this case. The Portland five were actually case. The Portland five were actually case. The Portland five were actually the Portland six. Remember all these girls remains were Remember all these girls remains were found between February and May of 2023. found between February and May of 2023. found between February and May of 2023. And at the very end of May that year, And at the very end of May that year, And at the very end of May that year, the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's office put out a release basically office put out a release basically office put out a release basically making a plea to the public for help. It making a plea to the public for help. It making a plea to the public for help. It turns out that on April 24th, so right turns out that on April 24th, so right turns out that on April 24th, so right in the same time frame as the Calhoun in the same time frame as the Calhoun in the same time frame as the Calhoun case was unfolding, another woman was case was unfolding, another woman was case was unfolding, another woman was found dead near Interstate 205 in the found dead near Interstate 205 in the found dead near Interstate 205 in the Lents neighborhood of Portland. In a Lents neighborhood of Portland. In a Lents neighborhood of Portland. In a press release, authorities said they press release, authorities said they press release, authorities said they believe she was either Native American believe she was either Native American believe she was either Native American or Native Alaska, between the ages of 25 or Native Alaska, between the ages of 25 or Native Alaska, between the ages of 25 and 40, and she was only 5'1". Now, I and 40, and she was only 5'1". Now, I and 40, and she was only 5'1". Now, I say her height because there's a pretty say her height because there's a pretty say her height because there's a pretty unique detail about several of the unique detail about several of the unique detail about several of the alleged Calhoun victims. They are very alleged Calhoun victims. They are very alleged Calhoun victims. They are very small or petite. According to official small or petite. According to official small or petite. According to official press releases about both Kristin Smith

press releases about both Kristin Smith press releases about both Kristin Smith and Ashley Real, Kristin was only 5'2" and Ashley Real, Kristin was only 5'2" and Ashley Real, Kristin was only 5'2" and 100 lb, and Ashley was only 4'11" and 100 lb, and Ashley was only 4'11" and 100 lb, and Ashley was only 4'11" and 85 lb. But the sixth victim, no one and 85 lb. But the sixth victim, no one and 85 lb. But the sixth victim, no one knew who she was. In fact, she is still knew who she was. In fact, she is still knew who she was. In fact, she is still unidentified to this day. [music] unidentified to this day. [music] unidentified to this day. [music] I find myself saying the same thing I I find myself saying the same thing I I find myself saying the same thing I did earlier. It's very possible this did earlier. It's very possible this did earlier. It's very possible this case is unrelated to the others, case is unrelated to the others, case is unrelated to the others, especially now that detectives have some especially now that detectives have some especially now that detectives have some sort of evidence connecting the five sort of evidence connecting the five sort of evidence connecting the five other women, but nothing has been ruled other women, but nothing has been ruled other women, but nothing has been ruled out. out. out. Whether she's a victim of Calhoun or Whether she's a victim of Calhoun or Whether she's a victim of Calhoun or not, my hope is this episode also helps not, my hope is this episode also helps not, my hope is this episode also helps with the possibility of identifying her. with the possibility of identifying her. with the possibility of identifying her. >> [music] >> [music] >> [music] >> Authorities say she has two large scars >> Authorities say she has two large scars >> Authorities say she has two large scars on her lower left leg and two tattoos, a on her lower left leg and two tattoos, a on her lower left leg and two tattoos, a black music note with a letter V on her black music note with a letter V on her black music note with a letter V on her upper chest [music] and the Buddha on upper chest [music] and the Buddha on upper chest [music] and the Buddha on her upper back and shoulder blade. She her upper back and shoulder blade. She her upper back and shoulder blade. She was wearing a long-sleeve green shirt, a was wearing a long-sleeve green shirt, a was wearing a long-sleeve green shirt, a black and white jacket, blue jeans, and black and white jacket, blue jeans, and black and white jacket, blue jeans, and black and white Adidas cleats. black and white Adidas cleats. black and white Adidas cleats. For now, the families of the Portland For now, the families of the Portland For now, the families of the Portland Five are prepared for a long legal Five are prepared for a long legal Five are prepared for a long legal journey ahead. They all mentioned it at journey ahead. They all mentioned it at journey ahead. They all mentioned it at these indictment press conferences.

these indictment press conferences. these indictment press conferences. Joanna's sister told me, as someone who Joanna's sister told me, as someone who Joanna's sister told me, as someone who loves true crime, she honestly feels loves true crime, she honestly feels loves true crime, she honestly feels like she's just been living a true crime like she's just been living a true crime like she's just been living a true crime podcast. All of these parents and podcast. All of these parents and podcast. All of these parents and siblings of the Portland Five are now siblings of the Portland Five are now siblings of the Portland Five are now sadly part of a family that they never sadly part of a family that they never sadly part of a family that they never wanted to be. Parents of murdered wanted to be. Parents of murdered wanted to be. Parents of murdered children at the alleged hands of a children at the alleged hands of a children at the alleged hands of a serial killer. But their gratitude for serial killer. But their gratitude for serial killer. But their gratitude for each other as they tackle this together each other as they tackle this together each other as they tackle this together is unwavering. Detectives are aiming for is unwavering. Detectives are aiming for is unwavering. Detectives are aiming for a joint trial with all of the victims in a joint trial with all of the victims in a joint trial with all of the victims in 2027, but that could get pushed back 2027, but that could get pushed back 2027, but that could get pushed back into 2028 with the recent indictment. If into 2028 with the recent indictment. If into 2028 with the recent indictment. If you have any information on any possible you have any information on any possible you have any information on any possible additional victims of Jesse Lee Calhoun, additional victims of Jesse Lee Calhoun, additional victims of Jesse Lee Calhoun, please contact the Multnomah County please contact the Multnomah County please contact the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office. You can also email us Sheriff's Office. You can also email us Sheriff's Office. You can also email us tips to [email protected]. tips to [email protected]. tips to [email protected]. If you have [music] any details that If you have [music] any details that If you have [music] any details that could help identify that sixth young could help identify that sixth young could help identify that sixth young woman, please contact the Multnomah woman, please contact the Multnomah woman, please contact the Multnomah County Medical Examiner's Office. Crime County Medical Examiner's Office. Crime County Medical Examiner's Office. Crime Junkies, we will keep you up to date on Junkies, we will keep you up to date on Junkies, we will keep you up to date on the investigation and trial of Jesse Lee the investigation and trial of Jesse Lee the investigation and trial of Jesse Lee Calhoun. So, make sure to subscribe and Calhoun. So, make sure to subscribe and Calhoun. So, make sure to subscribe and hit the bell icon for additional updates hit the bell icon for additional updates hit the bell icon for additional updates on this and other cases our team covers.