11/18/25 - LCSO Case 25-5621

Mapleton man arrested for menacing with a knife

On November 18th at 7:30 a.m., Lane County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the business district in Mapleton along Highway 126 for a report of a man menacing people with a large knife. The man, identified as Thomas Lynn Jessop, 29, of Mapleton, pointed the knife at people and made threatening statements as he advanced towards them. Jessop was held at gunpoint by two individuals as deputies responded from Florence and Veneta.

Before deputies arrived, a bystander also sprayed Jessop with bear spray. He dropped the knife and removed his clothing. Jessop was cooperative with deputies as he was arrested, but his behavior then escalated. Medics sedated and transported him to an area hospital for evaluation and treatment.

Jessop was lodged at the Lane County Jail for three counts of Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Disorderly Conduct.

Thanks to the bystanders who took action to keep others safe, as well as Oregon State Police, Florence Police Department, and Western Lane Fire & EMS Authority for their assistance on this incident.

Anyone with additional information or who witnessed this incident is asked to call the Lane County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 541-682-4150 option 1 and reference Case 25-5621.

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