In early August 2026, a collaborative operation between Oregon and California law enforcement agencies led to the apprehension of murder suspect Cris Jones near Harriet Lake in the Mount Hood National Forest. Jones, 60, is accused of murdering 61-year-old Daniel Joslin in California and subsequently assuming his identity.
The investigation began on July 31, 2026, when a Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputy encountered Jones at Harriet Lake, approximately 60 miles southeast of Portland. Jones identified himself as Daniel Joslin and claimed ownership of a black Ford F-150 pickup truck parked nearby. A records check revealed that Joslin had been reported missing on July 3, 2026, after friends and family had not heard from him in ten days. (mcso.us)
Further investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBCSD) in California led to the discovery of Joslin’s body on July 29, 2026, buried in a shallow grave in the backyard of the residence he shared with Jones in Yucca Valley, California. (mcso.us)
On August 2, 2026, the CCSO SWAT Team and Air Unit conducted a tactical operation near Harriet Lake, where Jones had been previously contacted. The Air Unit located Jones, and SWAT personnel apprehended him without incident. A knife and sheath were seized from Jones’ front pants pocket as evidence. (mcso.us)
Jones is currently being held for the murder of Daniel Joslin and is pending extradition to California. The investigation remains open, and authorities have not released a motive or cause of death. (mcso.us)
This case highlights the effective collaboration between Oregon and California law enforcement agencies in apprehending a murder suspect across state lines.