Klamath Sheriff Skrah indicted on nine counts

The Oregon Department of Justice announced Friday the indictment of Klamath County Sheriff Frank Skrah on nine counts of official misconduct, assault, strangulation and attempted assault.

The Klamath County grand jury charged Skrah with three counts of harassment, three counts of official misconduct in the first degree, one count of attempted assault in the fourth degree, one count of assault in the fourth degree and one count of strangulation.

At Friday afternoon’s arraignment, Skrah appeared with counsel and did not enter a plea. The conditions of his release include, but are not limited to, no patrol and no conducting of or participating in traffic or criminal stops. He can also have no direct physical conduct with suspects or inmates.

“All law enforcement officers, including Sheriff Skrah, are sworn to uphold the law in Oregon,” said Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum. “The grand jury has determined there is a basis to bring charges based on his actions, including the use of excessive force and the failure to perform required duties. As with all persons charged with a crime, he is innocent until proven guilty.”

Skrah said at a news conference Thursday that he hasn’t caused harm to anyone while on duty. County commissioners have said Skrah should take paid leave, but he’s refused.

Seven deputies were granted paid, non-disciplinary leave when they said Skrah retaliated against them after they were interviewed by state investigators. The sheriff disputes those claims.

Skrah’s next court appearance is scheduled for October 19.

In April, the Department of Justice began a criminal investigation involving allegations surrounding Sheriff Skrah.

A copy of the indictment can be found here: Frank Skrah indictment (PDF)