Jackson County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested a 39 year old man Tuesday on charges related to the sexual abuse of a 16 year old girl. Detectives are concerned the suspect may have had contact with additional teens.
The investigation began on January 12, 2019. A 16-year-old girl reported being sexually assaulted by an older man she had met online. The two used the Whisper phone application to communicate and later met in person.
The investigation led detectives to identify the suspect as 38 year old Erik Theil Rowe of Gold Hill. On Tuesday, October 29th, Jackson County Sheriff’s detectives executed a search warrant at Rowe’s home and Rowe was taken into custody at that time.
Rowe is currently lodged in the Jackson County jail on a charge of third degree sexual abuse. A judge set bail at $10,000.
Detectives have reason to believe Rowe may have had contact with other teens in the Medford and Grants Pass areas through various social media and phone apps.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s tip line at (541) 770-8333.
