Over a month ago, the Grants Pass Daily Courier notified us that Chris Barnett, a candidate for County Commissioner, had filed a lawsuit against us for libel. Yet, more than 30 days have passed, and we have not been served. This unfulfilled lawsuit appears to be another intimidation tactic—a strategy Barnett has allegedly used to silence critics in the past. In response, we launched a comprehensive investigation into Barnett’s background, uncovering a series of allegations and discrepancies that shed new light on his character and fitness for office.
Initially, Barnett managed to publish favorable articles about himself in the Grants Pass Tribune, with the newspaper even editing on his behalf. However, during a one-on-one interview, he provided little insight into his platform or policies, offering only vague plans to “help the homeless.” Even his self-assigned nickname, “Commander,” raised questions. Barnett initially claimed it was related to his service in the U.S. Air Force but later changed his story, saying it originated from a radio show—one of the few statements that could be verified as truthful.
Our investigation took a serious turn when we spoke with Nicole Alexander, a 13-year employee of the Barnetts’, who disclosed as well as provided documentation on alarming details about her time working for Chris and Stephanie Barnett. According to Alexander, she was coerced into signing off on real estate contracts and handling complex transactions for bank-owned properties without a real estate license—an allegation that could lead to a formal investigation by the Real Estate Commission and the potential revocation of both Barnetts’ real estate licenses.
Additionally, Alexander reported that after suffering a car accident on the job, the Barnett’s refused to file a workers’ compensation claim on her behalf, only submitting the report when there was no other option. The Barnetts allegedly pressured her to sign non-disclosure agreements under the threat of job loss and legal action, adding to a troubling pattern of workplace coercion and intimidation. Many of these dealings involved John West, a long-time associate of Barnett, and go back as far as 2009.
Barnett’s alleged misconduct is further documented in the Oak Dale Drive transaction from 2010, which includes accusations of fraudulent practices. Should Barnett choose to challenge these claims in court, we are prepared to subpoena FBI Special Agent Troutman and various other involved parties as witnesses. Barnett’s lawsuit demands $100,000, despite his public statements claiming he has no financial motivation or business ties with John West. This inconsistency only adds to the questions surrounding his credibility.
Our investigation has also highlighted reports from Lakeside and Coos County, Oregon, where Barnett’s Osprey property has been cited for code violations and instances of misleading advertising. In one example, he used promotional materials from a UTV Takeover event, falsely claiming an affiliation with it, thereby misleading potential guests.
In a particularly disturbing incident, Barnett allegedly threatened to shoot another man in Lakeside, Oregon. According to witness Mr. Beer, Barnett brandished a firearm strapped to his hip, a description matching that found in the police report (see police report and photograph below). The police were called to address his disorderly conduct, and he was subsequently banned from all city property. Another witness, Darlene Thompson, stated that Barnett had become belligerent, yelling at volunteers attempting to remove food for their families. His behavior left witnesses questioning his mental stability.
As the November election draws near, the community must consider the potential consequences of electing Chris Barnett to public office. Do we need another County Commissioner whose actions could prompt a recall, or should we seek a candidate who embodies transparency, integrity, and accountability?
The choice lies in the hands of the voters, who now have a fuller picture of Barnett’s history and associations. It is imperative to question whether his candidacy represents the values of our community or if it reflects yet another layer of cronyism and ethical lapses.
Police Report Coos County Oregon:
(Photograph of Chris Barnett on date of incident – Note the description of clothing to police report.)
