Suspected PNW serial killer who received clemency from Gov Kate Brown charged with manslaughter in death of 6th victim

A suspected Pacific Northwest serial killer who allegedly went on a murder streak after being granted clemency by former Oregon Gov. Kate Brown (D) has been charged with the killing of a sixth victim, identified as Elizabeth "Libby" Gibson. Jesse Lee Calhoun was indicted Wednesday by a Multnomah County grand jury on a charge of first-degree manslaughter for Gibson's death, according to the District Attorney's Office.

Gibson, a 32-year-old Portland woman, is believed to have been killed on November 18, 2022, authorities said. Her body has yet to be recovered, and she was first reported missing in March 2023.

"We will not stop. We will do everything in our power to hold him accountable and see that justice is done for each and every one of these victims," said Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez in a press release. "We remain committed to these families for as long as it takes."

Calhoun had previously pleaded not guilty to murder charges in the deaths of five additional women. The bodies of these women were discovered in rural and wooded areas throughout northwest Oregon and southwest Washington between late 2022 and mid-2023. The deceased victims have been identified as Charity Lynn Perry, Ashley Real, Kristin Smith, Joanna Speaks, and Bridget Leanne Webster.

"Our family is grateful that a definitive step toward justice is finally being taken for our sister, Libby," the victim's family said in a statement. "Libby was kind, creative, and silly. She welcomed everyone with love and acceptance. Her future was tragically taken from her way too soon."

Calhoun was released from Oregon state prison in 2021 after being granted clemency at the direction of former Democrat Gov. Kate Brown during the Covid-19 pandemic era. Calhoun had his clemency revoked when detectives linked him to the killings in July 2023.

Multnomah County senior deputy district attorney Melissa Marrero said during a press conference that Calhoun will be arraigned on the new charges Monday at 1:30 pm. A new trial date will be set.