Clackamas County Commissioner Melissa Fireside Indicted on Eight Felony Counts for Financial Fraud

Clackamas County Commissioner Melissa Fireside has been indicted on eight felony charges, including aggravated theft, identity theft, and forgery, for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from an 83-year-old man, according to court documents unsealed on Wednesday.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

Prosecutors allege that in September 2024, Fireside unlawfully accessed the computer network of Arthur Wayne Petrone, an elderly resident, and misappropriated funds. Additionally, she is accused of forging the signature of Oregon State Representative April Dobson, a Democrat representing Milwaukie, North Clackamas, and Happy Valley.

Dobson, in a statement, clarified that she had initially loaned money to Fireside under the impression that she was helping a struggling single mother.

“She came to me as a friend looking for temporary relief for her personal business. I agreed to support her during a tough time and drew up a contract that explicitly stated she would repay the loan within one month. She did so,” Dobson said.

However, in November 2024, police informed Dobson that there was an issue with the source of the money Fireside used to repay the loan. Following this revelation, Dobson fully cooperated with investigators and stated that she has had no contact with Fireside since then.

Legal Proceedings Underway

A grand jury indicted the 43-year-old commissioner on February 28, and she was arraigned on Wednesday in Clackamas County Circuit Court. If convicted, Fireside could face severe legal consequences, as aggravated theft and identity theft are serious offenses under Oregon law.

Fireside’s attorney declined to comment on the case. The scandal has sparked concerns among Clackamas County residents, raising questions about ethics in public office and financial accountability.

As the case unfolds, Fireside’s political future remains uncertain, with mounting public pressure and legal scrutiny.