1939-5-11, Pierce Named In Indictment,
"Fred R. Pierce, 46, Newberg WPA worker, was named in a Yamhill grand jury indictment late today charging assault and battery in connection with the beating of his 14-year-old son, Roy, with a water-soaked rope.
One secret indictment also was returned by the jury at the close of the third day of the May session which was started a week late because of the illness of Thomas Major, foreman.
Pierce was arrested April 27, after state police and Newberg city police were informed of the beating received by the boy. Sheriff G. W. Manning said later that Pierce admitted the beating. The boy was examined here by Dr. L. S. Goerke, director of the county health department, and it was found that his left arm and back were streaked with bruises and welts caused by the blows with the rope.
Pierce was placed in county jail for failure to post $1000 bail.