Exclusive: Rookie Prineville PD officer filmed urinating outside bar is back on patrol after reprimand and suspension

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) – After NewsChannel 21 broke the news in January of Prineville’s newest police officer, Jacob Gentry, urinating outside of a Prineville, we have now learned that he is back on patrol following a written reprimand and a two-day suspension without pay.

This comes as the department remains without a permanent cop for nearly a year.

In January, Gentry was placed on paid leave while Prineville police investigated an off-duty incident. According to witnesses, Gentry showed up at a Prineville bar “visibly drunk,” introducing himself as a police officer and talking about pending cases.

After being refused service, witnesses and exclusive video obtained by NewsChannel 21 show Gentry urinating outside the bar. Witnesses say he was then sent home by taxi.

Although urinating in public is not a crime in Oregon, Gentry received a two-day suspension without pay, as well as a written reprimand for his non-criminal off-duty incident.

This comes at a difficult time for the department. After its former chief and top captain resigned following an investigation into their conduct, the town of Prineville still remains without a top police officer nearly a year later.

The city and former chief Larry Seymour also face a lawsuit from a former manager, accusing them of illegal conduct.

Three finalists were recently selected to take on the role, but after visits that included interviews with city staff and meeting with residents, the city decided to restart the search and look for other options.

The new finalists are expected to be announced in July.