Point #1

True sent a letter to Ron Jaeger, a private citizen, that was perceived by those involved as intimidating or coercive.

Summary: On May 23, 2025, Prosecuting Attorney True Pearce sent a letter to Ron Jaeger through the Sheriff’s Office regarding statements Jaeger made during the May 19, 2025 Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting. In that meeting, Jaeger, along with other county residents, advocated for a temporary moratorium on certain county actions they believed may be inconsistent with Washington County Code, applicable law, or past practice. The proposed moratorium had been drafted by an attorney retained by private citizens using private funds.

In his letter, Pearce raised concerns that Jaeger’s statements could constitute the unauthorized practice of law and requested that Jaeger provide related documents and communications. Jaeger subsequently retained legal counsel, whose response disputed the basis for those concerns and the application of the law in this instance.

Questions have been raised by some regarding the use of Sheriff’s Office service for delivery of the letter, as well as whether this approach may have had a chilling effect on citizen participation in public meetings.

These events have contributed to broader community discussion about the appropriate role of legal counsel, the use of county resources, and the importance of ensuring that citizens feel comfortable participating in public processes without concern for potential repercussions.

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