Steven Montie Crum pleaded guilty to the 2010 killing of a pregnant Hermiston woman

A former Morrow County Sheriff’s reserve deputy today was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to murdering a pregnant woman in 2010.

Steven Montie Crum (DOB: 06-12-1981) pleaded guilty to the murder of Jessica Rae Killian, whose body was discovered on Oct. 4, 2010 on a farm near Ione. Crum must serve a minimum of 30 years in prison before he is eligible for parole.

The Oregon Department of Justice prosecuted the case at the request of Morrow County District Attorney Justin W. Nelson to ensure the integrity of the process due to the defendant’s connection to local law enforcement.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to Jessica’s family. While nothing we do can bring back Jessica, I hope that this prison sentence can bring a bit of closure to Jessica’s friends and family. The prosecution of Mr. Crum would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the Morrow/Umatilla County Major Crime Team and the Oregon Department of Justice,” said Morrow County District Attorney Justin Nelson.

“I want to thank District Attorney Nelson for his assistance in this important case,” said Attorney General John Kroger.

Assistant Attorney General Andrew Campbell prosecuted the case for the Oregon Department of Justice. The case was investigated by the Oregon State Police with assistance from the Umatilla/Morrow County Major Crime Team.

Attorney General John Kroger leads the Oregon Department of Justice. The Department’s mission is to fight crime and fraud, protect the environment, improve child welfare, promote a positive business climate, and defend the rights of all Oregonians.

Contact:

Tony Green, (503) 378-6002 tony.green@doj.state.or.us |