• WHO: Jason David Perillo (accused), Catherine Grace Crosse (victim)
  • WHAT: Perillo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for the fatal stabbing of Crosse and cashing her lottery ticket.
  • WHERE: Wilsonville, Oregon
  • WHEN: Crosse was found dead on Dec. 31, 2024; Perillo was sentenced on a Thursday.
  • STATUS: Perillo was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in 25 years.

An Oregon man has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to fatally stabbing a woman and subsequently cashing her winning lottery ticket, authorities announced.

Jason David Perillo, 52, entered a guilty plea to second-degree murder in connection with the death of 41-year-old Catherine Grace Crosse, who was discovered deceased in her recreational vehicle in Wilsonville, Oregon.

What Happened

According to a press release from the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office, Catherine Grace Crosse was found dead in her RV on Dec. 31, 2024. Prosecutors allege Crosse sustained approximately 30 stab wounds to her face and neck. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Perillo entering Crosse's RV and departing two hours later. Investigators determined Crosse was still alive when Perillo arrived at the location, according to prosecutors.

The incident came to light when a friend, unable to reach Crosse by phone, asked another friend to check on her. That friend subsequently discovered Crosse's body. Prosecutors stated that Crosse and a companion sold small quantities of fentanyl and cocaine from the RV they shared, and Perillo was identified as one of their customers. Authorities believe Perillo went to the RV to purchase drugs on the day Crosse was found dead. Video evidence reportedly shows Perillo carrying items out of the RV as he departed.

Among the items Perillo allegedly took was a winning lottery ticket valued at $400.05, which Crosse had previously discussed with a friend via text message. Crosse had also communicated with her friend about an additional $6,750 in cash she had recently acquired, according to prosecutors. Investigators discovered that Perillo, who prosecutors said had no steady or reliable source of income, purchased a truck for $2,000 and gave his wife $1,000 shortly after Crosse was found dead. Perillo cashed Crosse's winning lottery ticket four days after her death, according to prosecutors.

The Charges Explained

Jason David Perillo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. In Oregon, second-degree murder typically involves intentionally causing the death of another person that is not deliberate and premeditated, or causing death during the commission of certain felony offenses. It carries a significant prison sentence.

How These Cases Move Through Court

In Oregon's state court system, criminal cases, such as homicide, typically begin with an arrest, followed by an arraignment where the accused is formally informed of the charges and enters a plea. For serious felonies like murder, a grand jury may review evidence and issue an indictment. If the defendant pleads not guilty, pre-trial motions and discovery proceed. A plea bargain, such as the one in this case, allows the defendant to plead guilty to a lesser charge or a reduced sentence in exchange for avoiding a trial. If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a criminal trial, where a jury or judge determines guilt or innocence based on evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense. Following a conviction, a sentencing phase determines the penalty.

Context & Background

Homicide cases in Oregon involve complex investigations and legal processes. Law enforcement agencies in the state work to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and utilize forensic analysis to reconstruct events and identify those responsible. The Clackamas County District Attorney's Office handles the prosecution of criminal offenses within its jurisdiction, aiming to secure justice, which may include plea agreements that result in significant sentences and provide resolution to victims' families, as in this case.

Recognizing and Reporting Homicide

Recognizing the signs of potential violence and knowing how to report suspicious activity or crimes is crucial for public safety. If you believe someone is in immediate danger or a crime is being committed, call 911 immediately. For information regarding missing and exploited children, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678. To report federal crimes or to provide tips on criminal activity, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

What Happens Next

Jason David Perillo has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years, meaning he will serve at least that specified term before being eligible for release consideration. The sentencing concludes the primary legal proceedings in this case, though an incarcerated individual may have avenues for appeal depending on the specific legal circumstances.