Oregon Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Decades-Long Sexual Abuse, Authorities Seek Additional Victims

HILLSBORO, Ore. — Richard Dale Warren, 69, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to four counts of first-degree sexual abuse on September 4, 2024. Washington County Circuit Court Judge Brandon Thompson also ordered Warren to serve 10 years of post-prison supervision. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel led the prosecution.

The case began in March 2022 when the Washington County Sheriff’s Office received a report of sexual abuse. The victim reported that Warren had assaulted her repeatedly over the course of a year and threatened to harm her loved ones if she spoke out. Despite these threats, she confided in a family member, leading to the involvement of law enforcement.

Investigators later uncovered a history of abuse involving other victims across several states dating back to the 1980s. According to police, Warren had considered killing one of his previous victims to prevent her from coming forward. That victim, now in her 50s, confirmed the abuse to authorities but had remained silent for years out of fear. Warren admitted to sexually abusing multiple victims and, in some cases, continuing to harass them by sending explicit messages and photos. He told investigators he relocated to Oregon in an attempt to avoid arrest.

“His cruelty extended far beyond the initial abuse,” Meisel said. “He thrived on creating fear and suffering, even years after the assaults.”

At sentencing, the victim’s mother read a statement on behalf of her daughter, who expressed her resolve to move forward with her life. She stated that, with the support of her trauma therapist, she plans to graduate high school, attend college, and live a happy life, despite Warren’s actions.

Authorities believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office praised the victim for her courage in reporting the abuse and acknowledged the efforts of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and CARES Northwest in the investigation.

Warren will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to begin his sentence.