JAMES MICHAEL MADDEN SENTENCED IN WEST SALEM FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF 5-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In a serious case that has shocked the West Salem community, James Michael Madden, a 46-year-old resident of Keizer, was formally sentenced on May 8 in Polk County Circuit Court for heinous crimes involving a young child. Madden was found guilty of sexually abusing a five-year-old girl who was under his care, a case that has garnered significant attention due to the disturbing nature of the allegations and the circumstances surrounding his arrest.

According to court records, Madden entered a guilty plea on April 16 to two counts of sexual abuse. The court subsequently handed down a sentence of six years and three months in prison, reflecting the gravity of his offenses. In addition to his prison term, Madden was ordered to serve 45 months of post-prison supervision, a measure intended to monitor his conduct after his release. Furthermore, he is mandated to register as a sex offender, a requirement that will follow him for the foreseeable future.

The Polk County District Attorney’s Office provided details about Madden’s arrest, revealing that it took place at Portland International Airport in 2024. Authorities intercepted Madden as he was attempting to leave the country, an act that prompted his immediate detention. Since his arrest, Madden has been held in Polk County Jail, awaiting sentencing and further legal proceedings.

It was also noted that Madden has a prior criminal history related to possession of child pornography. This previous conviction necessitated his registration as a sex offender, underscoring the ongoing concerns about his potential risk to the community. The case has raised alarms among residents of West Salem, who are now closely following developments and advocating for continued vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable children.