SALEM, Ore. — A domestic violence investigation Monday night led to the arrest of a Salem man on multiple felony charges, including menacing, weapons violations, and drug trafficking, after officers recovered a stolen handgun and evidence of cocaine manufacturing.

On October 27 at approximately 9:30 p.m., Salem Police officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at a residence in southeast Salem. The suspect, Jeffery Helmer, 40, of Salem, reportedly menaced the victim with both a knife and a firearm earlier in the evening before fleeing the scene.

During the investigation, officers interviewed involved parties and reviewed evidence related to the incident. Based on the information gathered, probable cause was established for multiple felony charges.

Helmer was located at a bar on Lancaster Drive NE and taken into custody without incident. A search of his vehicle led to the recovery of a stolen handgun believed to have been used in the incident. Officers also located evidence of cocaine delivery and manufacturing.

Helmer was lodged at the jail on charges of domestic violence menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a stolen firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm, delivery and manufacturing of a controlled substance — cocaine, and additional drug-related offenses.

Helmer is scheduled to be arraigned today October 28, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Circuit Court Annex 4000 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem. Since the suspect is in custody, all further media inquiries will be handled by the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

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