On Friday, November 21, 2025, Stayton Police Department received a report from a citizen whose vehicle had been broken into, with several items – including credit cards – stolen. The victim told the officer the stolen credit card had already been used at two local Stayton businesses, both of which had video surveillance of the suspect. As the victim was speaking with the officer, they said they believed the suspect was currently at a Stayton business parking lot.
The officer located the male matching video surveillance footage. He was identified as Mark Donahue, age 47. When taken into custody, he had property on him from a reported car prowl as well as property in the name of a person other than him. It was later determined that person was also a victim of a car break in. Additionally, he was in possession of a stolen firearm, previously reported stolen in Salem.
Later in the day, a concerned citizen reported finding items stashed behind a telephone pole that he believed was suspicious. Police retrieved the items and were able to connect them to a reported car break in and return these stolen items to the rightful owner.
Donahue was lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:
• Theft II (Theft from a Motor Vehicle)
• Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle (ORS 164.272 A)
• Identity Theft (ORS 165.800)
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (ORS 166.250)
• Theft I (Possession of Stolen Property)
• Theft III
The Stayton Police Department extends its appreciation to the alert and engaged community members who promptly reported suspicious activity and crimes. These reports played a critical role in identifying a suspect, recovering stolen property, and removing a stolen firearm from the streets.
We appreciate working in partnership with our citizens and businesses. To report suspicious activity or crimes, please call our 24-hour dispatch line at (503) 982-2340.
