HILLSBORO, Ore.- On July 28, 2021, after deliberating for less than thirty minutes, a Washington County jury found Jayson Harrison Burton, age 38, guilty of third-degree rape and second-degree sexual abuse. On September 28, 2021, Judge Charles Bailey sentenced the defendant to 90 days in the Washington County Jail and three years of probation. Deputy District Attorney Rayney Meisel prosecuted the case.

The victim was 14 years old when she ran away from her home in the state of Washington. She called the defendant, whom she knew through her mother, for a ride. Instead of taking her to her friend’s house as requested, the defendant drove her to a hotel in Hillsboro, Oregon, where he was living part-time. The defendant provided the minor with alcohol and marijuana and had sexual intercourse with her before driving her back to Washington the following day. He urged her not to tell anyone.

A few months later, while living in the child’s home, the defendant attempted to engage in sexual contact once again, but she refused. 

Shortly thereafter, the victim disclosed the abuse to her mother, who confronted the defendant. He admitted to the crimes and said he did not view the teenager as a child. Her mother confided in a friend who alerted law enforcement in Washington. The King County Sheriff’s Office investigated and eventually referred the case to the Hillsboro Police Department.

“Mr. Burton knew the child from the time she was 12 years old. He took advantage of a troubled teenager who trusted him and confided in him and asked him for help,” said DDA Meisel. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office wishes to acknowledge the victim in this case for having the bravery to report this abuse and assist with prosecution. This office also thanks Hillsboro police and their lead detective along with the King County Sheriff’s Office and Detective Sarah Gerlitz for their work.