Many drivers caught in the home-bound commute wondered why NE Halsey Street was blocked, or very slow moving, on March 11th. These exclusive photos tell the story …

Traffic is backed up on NE Halsey Street – shown here from the “split” back to the I-84 offramp – due to a one-vehicle accident.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Home-bound traffic along NE Halsey Street in the Hazelwood Neighborhood is usually slowing-going during typical rush hours. But during one evening’s recent commute, traffic came to a complete standstill at times, due to a single-vehicle smashup. It happened at about 5:30 p.m. on March 11.

“This big white pickup truck just drove up onto the sidewalk,” an employee of Gossip Restaurant & Lounge, 11340 NE Halsey Street, told us, as he sat in his car. “The truck just drove right up here and smashed right through the pole. Our lights went out; we’re closing for the night.”

There appears to be surprisingly little damage to this truck – but it’s clear that the driver smacked into the utility pole, almost dead center.

Drivers not familiar with the neighborhood – some streets go through, and some dead-end – had no choice but to creep eastward on NE Halsey Street until they passed the wreck, and Pacific Power’s crew starting to replace the severed wooden utility pole, just after the road “split” at NE Weidler Street.

According to a Portland Police Bureau District Officer at the scene, the driver of the pickup truck showed no signs of intoxication or impairment. “He just said he must have fallen asleep behind the wheel.”

A Pacific Power employee salvages parts from the smashed utility pole before a new pole is installed.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Why the gun-toting thief shot off rounds after stealing from this store remains a mystery. See what we found out about this case.

Neighbors say they appreciate the service, and convenience provided by the Woodstock Market in Lents.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
What startled neighbors along SE Woodstock Boulevard in the Lents neighborhood was the sound of gunshots on March 8, about 5:20 p.m.

“When Portland Police Bureau District Officers arrived,” stated police spokesman Sergeant Greg Stewart, “they discovered the sound of gunshots had been related to the robbery the Woodstock Market at 8601 S.E. Woodstock Boulevard.”

According to some accounts, the armed bandit shot off his weapon only after the robbery had been committed.

Officers secured the scene, continued Stewart – and were able to determine that no one was injured. “Officer and detectives began an investigation; evidence related to the incident was recovered.”

But, according to East Precinct Captain William Walker, the violent incident didn’t go unnoticed. “Police officers were given a good description for a car thought to be involved in the holdup at the market. With the detailed description sent out, it wasn’t long until alert East Precinct officers spotted the suspect car and stopped it. Subjects in the car were detained and interviewed.”

This man, Chiew Tong Saechao, was arrested and charged with multiple counts, just hours after the Woodstock Market was held up, police say.

About six hours later, at 11:40 P.M., officers and robbery detectives arrested Chiew Tong Saechao, a 22-year-old male, in relation to this case,” Stewart confirmed. “Saechao was charged with Attempted Murder, Robbery in the First Degree, and other weapons-related offenses. This investigation is still ongoing.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Cops ruled out booze as a cause – but drugs may have been in the suspect’s system. Reasons for the 4 AM rampage that caused a lot of damage are scarce …

After clearing away shattered glass from the entrance of the Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo showroom on NE 122nd Avenue, workmen prepare to install new plate glass windows.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Around 4:00 a.m. on March 4, a Honda sedan with California license plates hit the heavy steel chain guarding the entry to the Ron Tonkin Gran Turismo exotic car dealership, at 203 NE 122nd Avenue, with such force that it easily gave way.

The driver then used her car as a battering ram, as she allegedly smashed it into the main showroom building, and also into the steel roll-up doors that protect the Ferraris in the rear building.

As the dealership’s alarms sounded, a witness called 9-1-1, and then reportedly followed the car as it exited the dealership’s lot.

The car first hit and broke this heavy steel chain that was stretched across the dealership’s driveway.

A steel mesh roll-up door saved this exotic vehicle from damage. However the glass and roll-up door were destroyed.

“We have surveillance video cameras all over the dealership,” a Tonkin employee confided later that morning. “It was really something to see, as the car smashed into the showroom windows, and the steel doors that protect our bays in the back building. There was glass all over the place; but none of the vehicles was damaged.”

Fails getaway attempt
The driver of the now-battered Honda finally took off northbound on NE 122nd Avenue, past NE Glisan Street.  Police officers rushed to the area, and located the car near the intersection of NE 122nd Avenue and Halsey Street.

“The driver tried to elude the police,” said Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat. “Officers had to ‘box in’ the car to get it to stop.”

Wheat said the driver was, at first, uncooperative with officers, and was Tased. “It’s unclear if the Taser probes struck the subject,” Wheat added.

Police charged this woman, Francesca Lavezzo, with three counts related to the odd incident.

Officers took the woman, identified as 33-year-old Francesca Lavezzo, for medical observation at Portland Adventist Hospital, before she was booked into the downtown Multnomah County Jail.  She was released from custody later that same day.

“Lavezzo was charged with one count of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, one count of Felony Elude, and one count of Hit and Run,” Wheat reported. “It was originally reported that this incident did not involve alcohol or drugs. At this time, officers still do not believe alcohol was a factor, but there is a possibility that drugs were involved in this incident.”

We asked Detective Wheat if Lavezzo – reportedly a stand-up comic and actress at clubs in Los Angeles – presented out-of-state identification. “Lavezzo gave a North Portland address – but the car she was driving did have California plates.”

A website for the “11th Hour Comedy” group in Los Angeles displays a webpage for “Francesca Lavezzo”, and the data thereon matches the physical description (6 ft tall, 160 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes), and provides a similar-looking photograph for the woman police charged with the mayhem at the Tonkin dealership.

It is unknown why Lavezzo is in Portland, or what triggered her alleged vehicular rampage.

The driver of the offending car dented several of the steel roll-up doors at this Tonkin dealership, out 122nd way, before leaving the lot.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out what surprised firefighters in one of the apartments, as they battled this residential blaze …

Portland Fire & Rescue firefighters tear off portions of the roof to extinguish the flames traveling through the attic.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) crews arrived within minutes of getting the call, at 2:44 p.m. on March 1, a fire that broke out in a single-story 1970s-era ranch-style four-plex in the 2100 block of NE 80th Avenue was already belching out thick clouds of smoke; fire was visible.

When we arrived on-scene, firefighters with PF&R’s Engine 19, Truck 7, and Engine 28 were already opening the roof of the building to release heat, and pour water on the fire.

“People were home at the time,” commented PF&R spokesman, Lt. Allen Oswalt. “We had reports that the residents smelled, then saw, smoke. There were several calls to 9-1-1 before any of the smoke alarms – which were working – went off.”

Because it’s a multi-family dwelling, firefighters from several stations are called to fight the fire.

Older construction endangers building
Observing the firefighters at work as they opened up more of the roof, Oswald observed, “There’s probably very little or no ‘fire block’ between the units because of the older construction; when the units share a common attic, it allows fire to spread more easily.”

Soon, only wisps of smoke were visible, but the apartment units looked heavily damaged by smoke and water. “Fortunately, we got a quick knock-down that kept the fire from spreading to other buildings or homes in the area,” Oswalt said.

Large sections of the roof from this older four-plex had to be removed so firefighters could completely extinguish the blaze.

Pot grow discovered
When we noticed Portland Police Bureau drug unit officers on the scene, we asked why they had been called to the fire.

“There was a marijuana grow in one of the units,” a DVD officer told us. “Originally, they thought there was a ‘theft-of-service’ from Pacific Power and Light.”

Oswalt asked questions of the firefighters and told us, “Investigators say they checked; they believe that the ‘pot grow’ and the fire were not associated. It does not look to be a theft of power.”

We later asked Portland Police Bureau spokesperson, Detective Mary Wheat, about the pot grow. “As far as I can see from our records, this is a Fire Bureau investigation,” she replied.

Following up on this fire, PF&R’s Lt. Damon Simmons later reported that the fire was listed as “Accidental – Electrical”.

Quick response by Portland Fire & Rescue kept this fire from spreading to other units – or nearby houses. That’s Madison High School in the background.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why two young ladies are in the hospital – one just clinging to life – even though they did the “right thing” by calling for a taxi instead of driving, after their evening of musical reverie …

This is the scene where one pedestrian was pinned under a car, driven by an allegedly drunk driver, while her friend was thrown as far as 40 feet, after both were struck by the careening vehicle.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At the end of their “girl’s night out” – just before midnight on February 19 – two young ladies who had been enjoying an evening of karaoke at Fortune Star Food and Lounge made a very good, mature decision. Instead risking driving after an evening of partying, they called for a taxicab to pick them up at the establishment, located on SE Division Street near SE 158^th Avenue.

Customers who revisited the scene the following day, when we were investigating this incident, confirmed that two young ladies were enjoying the karaoke show before they left the establishment.

Marks left by Portland Police Bureau Major Crash Team accident investigators tell the story about what happened in an instant, early Sunday morning – an event that will change three lives, forever. Note that no skid marks are visible; it doesn’t appear as if the driver hit the brakes.

“It wasn’t a loud crash, just kind of a thud,” said witness Ryan Hillcrest. “People came out and first saw a woman, almost under a car, in [Fortune Star’s] parking lot.”

Then, they looked up, and about 40 feet to northwest, they saw a car smashed into a utility pole, Hillcrest said.

“Almost right away, police came,” Hillcrest continued. “And then, six or seven rescue people were trying to free the woman caught under the car. A couple paramedics swept up the other woman on a gurney, put her in an ambulance, and they were gone, off to the hospital.”

After caroming off the corner of Montego’s Tavern, the out-of-control car smashed into the two women.

Damaged tavern already closed for the night
The owner of Montego’s Tavern drove up and walked to the front of the building. She looked at the northeast corner of the building and shook her head. “I’m surprised to see how much damage there is. The concrete facing is cracked, and the side of the building is pushed out. I’m surprised we still have electricity and telephones because of such damage.”

She said they’d closed at midnight, and she was on her way home by 12:15 p.m. – but got a call just as she was arriving home, telling her about the accident.

The car, with an allegedly drunk driver at the wheel, was finally stopped hard by this utility pole.

Police confirm incident details
“Approximately 12:30 a.m., on February 20, the driver of a vehicle traveling Eastbound on Division at a high rate of speed lost control of the vehicle,” stated Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat. “The car hit two women who were outside an establishment on SE Division Street. The vehicle also hit a telephone pole and the building that were near both women.”

The Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team was called to the scene to investigate, Wheat said. “The pedestrian victims are identified as 21-year-old Rachel Barber, of southeast Salem, and 21-year-old Marie Drennan.”

Both victims were taken to Oregon Health & Science University. A family spokesman for Barber’s family, Jim Cook, has told the media that she, a single mother of two children, remains in critical condition. Drennan is said to be in fair condition.

Police have charged this man, 24-year-old Dallas L. Lawrence, of driving under the influence of intoxicants when allegedly his car mowed down two young ladies waiting for a cab ride home. MCDC photo

“The driver of the vehicle has been identified as 24-year-old Dallas L. Lawrence,” Wheat reported. “He was arrested at the scene, and charged with two counts of Assault in the Second Degree (Class B Felonies, each requiring a $250,000 bond), one count of DUII (Alcohol), and one count of Reckless Driving.”

At publication date, Lawrence remained in custody in the Multnomah County Detention Center.

A donation fund has been established in Rachel Barber’s name at US Bank – contributions can be made at any branch location.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Read this, and see why saving a few bucks on a child safety seat could actually cost a parent the life of their child …

Child Safety Seat Technician Instructor, and public education and information officer for AMR, Lucie Drum says good car seats need not be expensive.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
A good child safety seat might be the most thoughtful gift expectant parents could receive – this is what we took away from visiting at a recent Safety Seat Clinic in southeast Portland.

“The number one killer of our children in Oregon is motor vehicle crashes,” recounted Lucie Drum, Child Safety Seat Technician Instructor, and also the public education and information officer for American Medical Response (AMR).

“In addition to providing service to the community we serve, we’re doing out best to help make sure kids are safe when they ride in cars, because emergency medical service providers see the devastating injuries that can happen to children who are not properly restrained in a crash,” Drum said.

Each month, she noted, somewhere in the greater Portland area, AMR Ambulance conducts Child Safety Seat Clinics. “At these clinics, we find that as many as 80 to 85% of child safety seats are improperly installed – or, the kids have outgrown them.”

Ally MacCaskill, who is with AMR, shows expectant mom Rory Pickett how to properly use a new infant safety seat.

Don’t skimp on safety seats
Buying a safety seat at a thrift shop or yard sale is a bad idea, warned Drum. “We recommended that you don’t get such a child restraint if you don’t know its history. You cannot tell if a safety restraint has been in a crash and has hidden structural damage, or if it’s ‘out of date’ and should be discarded.”

Drum turned over a new Child Safety Seat available at the clinic and pointed to the notice it was dated to expire in 2015. “You’ll find the date in embossed lettering, on the back or bottom of every seat. The plastic gets exposed to ultraviolet rays and temperature extremes that can affect the integrity of the child car seat.”

Safety seat buying tips
But, in this tight economy, Drum said, she didn’t want to discourage parents from getting well-fitting car seats. “You don’t have to have the fancy one. As long as the car seat has passed the federal motor vehicle safety standards for crash testing, it’s okay to buy and use.”

However, make sure the seat fits the child – in terms of age, weight and maturity level – and does fit your vehicle. “You also want to have ease-of-use features, so it will be used correctly, every time, in the vehicle.”

Typical seat use errors
Surveys keep turning up these three critical usage and installation errors:

• The seatbelt is too loose;
• The harness does not fit properly; and,
• The restraint is inappropriate for the child.

“‘Inappropriate’ means the child has exceeded the height or weight specifications of the child restraint,” explained Drum. “Children grow very quickly, and it can be tricky to keep up with their maturation rate. It’s not uncommon to find a child restraint that has a harness rated for a 40-pound child being used with one who now weighs 46 or 48 pounds.”

And, she added, after a child outgrows a safety seat, they need to use a “booster seat” until they are tall enough to use a vehicle’s standard restraint system.

Catherine Albrecht, Oregon State Police retired, demonstrates how to correctly use a safety seat.

Financial aid is available
“Unfortunately we are in financially hard times here,” conceded Drum. “Fortunately, throughout Oregon, there is a federally-funded program for child safety seats.” Low-income families – those who qualify for WIC, or are on medical assistance – qualify for new safety seats without cost, she added.

“We recognize that having the correctly-sized child safety seat, and using it properly every time, might be a bit of inconvenience – but consider what might happen if your child is improperly-restrained during a car crash,” concluded Drum. “We ask every parent: Please don’t risk it!”

Next clinic on February 27
Their next event is runs on February 27 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Portland Fire & Rescue Station 23 on SE Powell Boulevard at SE Milwaukie Avenue (enter from the Milwaukie Ave. side.

No appointment is necessary. They ask that you read your vehicle owners manual and car seat instructions prior to attending. A certified technician will be available to work one on one with parents and caregivers to ensure that they can install their child restraints properly. Each seat check takes 20-30 minutes.

To learn more about Child Safety Seat Clinics, check their website: CLICK HERE.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

The only real victim of the gunfire appeared to be a car parked in a driveway. But, the number of bullet shell casings found at the site raises many questions. Read all about it, and see our exclusive photos, right here …

When shots rang out here on SE Ellis Street in the Lents neighborhood, neighbors called for police immediately.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Minutes until midnight on February 11, on a quiet street in the Lents neighborhood, half a dozen shots rang out.

Startled neighbors called the 9-1-1 Center and reported the gunfire at 11:44 p.m. According to police records, the callers said they heard six or eight shots, and saw four individuals speeding away from the intersection of SE 88th Avenue and SE Ellis Street, toward Lents Park.

“The neighbor who reported the incident gave a good description of the individuals, and the vehicle in which they fled the scene,” reported Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Captain William Walker. “Police dispatch relayed that information to our officers on patrol.”

That notification paid off moment later, Walker told us, when an alert East Precinct officer spotted a white car – with four occupants – that matched the description that was broadcast. “They spotted the car, turning off SE Powell Boulevard onto southbound I-205, and immediately called for backup officers to make a ‘high-risk stop’ on the suspect vehicle.”

Many officers gather to make a “felony stop”, on I-205 south of SE Foster Road, of the vehicle said to be carrying four individuals – one of them an alleged gunman.

For the safety of the officers – and those driving past a car carrying potentially armed individuals – police shut down the freeway to make the stop. Freeway traffic quickly stacked up to the Gateway area; some frustrated drivers made illegal U-turns and exited up the SE Foster Road on ramp.

It wasn’t much of a chase; as we traveled northbound on the freeway, we saw the white vehicle stopped and suspects standing near it – surrounded by officers – on the southbound side, about halfway between the SE Foster Road and SE Johnson Creek Boulevard interchanges, at the SE 92nd Avenue overpass.

Having taken the suspects into custody, the officers reopened two southbound lanes of the freeway.

At the scene of the shooting, officers had already placed evidence markers where the spent shell casings lay on the ground. “As far as we can tell, no one was injured in the shooting,” Walker commented.

This car’s windows were shot out in the incident. The motive for this vehicular assault remains a mystery.

It was clear that the vehicle involved was struck by at least one bullet; the front and passenger side window was completely shot out, the back window was mostly blown out and the rear window of the vehicle appeared shattered.

“We do have four individuals in custody,” Walker reported. “They were transported, to be interviewed, last night. The Gang Enforcement Team will be conducting the followup investigation.  Charges may be pending, based on the outcome of the investigation. The suspects’ identities haven’t yet been released.”

Evidence markers show where multiple spent bullet casings hit the ground, as the gunman peppered a car with gunfire.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

They attribute it to “just good police work” – but find out how on-the-ball East Precinct officers worked together to keep this robber from slipping away on a MAX Light Rail train. We’ve got exclusive photos …

This KeyBank at the Gateway Shopping Center was closed after being robbed – again.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The Gateway Shopping Center, at the southwest corner of NE 102nd Avenue and NE Halsey Sreet, is a convenient location for folks to do their shopping, dining, and banking. It’s at the junction of Interstate highways 205 and 84 – and, at the back of the Center is the Gateway MAX Light Rail Transit Center.

Perhaps the convenience of the location is the reason robbers have stopped in at the KeyBank branch at 1205 N.E. 102nd Avenue more than once.

> To see our coverage of a August 24, 2009, robbery, CLICK HERE

“About 3:37 p.m. on February 4, we had a call come in regarding a robbery at the Gateway KeyBank,” reported Portland Police Bureau (PPB) spokesman Sgt. Greg Stewart.

Tracking the suspected bank robber, officers converge on the south entrance of the Gateway Transit Center parking garage.

Within minutes of the call, Stewart told us, eleven officers and one sergeant had converged on the site. “Using information they developed, officers set up a perimeter around the Transit Center parking garage,” Stewart said.

Officers on-scene radioed for a K-9 team to help track the suspect and help in the arrest. But, moments later, alert officers themselves spotted the man described as the robber on the second level of the parking structure. Witnesses said they heard officers shout, “Stop! Stop right there!” and soon afterwards, they took a person into custody.

Police quickly gathered in the Gateway Transit Center parking structure, and capture the suspect.

On-scene, we’d learned that officers did apprehend a suspect, and witnesses from the bank had identified the suspect as the person who held them up.

Officers say they believe this cap was worn by the man who robbed the Key Bank.

Officials say this man, 35-year-old Michael K. Foley, is suspected of the Gateway Key Bank robbery.

“By 5:26 p.m., officers had the suspect in custody,” Steward said. 35-year-old Michael K. Foley was lodged at the Multnomah County Jail. Alert officers, following standard protocol, were responsible for a successful capture. It was just good police work.”

FBI spokesperson Beth Anne Steele declined comment on this case because she was away from her office when we spoke, but reminded us that bank robbery is a federal crime; she said the suspect would be arraigned on federal bank robbery charges next week.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

You’ve already seen many of stories behind these awards exclusively at East Portland News. Now, find out who the Portland Police Bureau considers to be outstanding officers, and learn why one Lents citizen, and his two friends, were given special honors …

The Horner Performing Arts Center is filled to “standing room only” as the ceremony gets underway.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
For blocks around the David Douglas High School Horner Performing Arts Center, parking was scarce on January 26, as participants and supporters assembled for the semiannual Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Awards Ceremony.

At the ceremony, introduced by PPB Chief Rosie Sizer, 29 citizens and 63 members of the Portland Police Bureau and partnering agencies were honored – many of them for work in outer East Portland.

Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer welcomes awardees and an auditorium full of guests to the latest awards ceremony.

Police spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat prepares to announce the first commendation.

Chief Sizer also presented the “Officer Mark Zylawy Distinguished Service Medal” to Officer West Helfrich, for his contributions to the community and his dedication to improving the lives of others.

Note: We lightly edited the text of the actual commendations
as they were spoken at the ceremony.

Commendation Medal awarded for
Rx turn-in program

East Precinct Crime Prevention Specialists Jenni Bernheisel and Angel Wagnon receive their awards for the drug turn-in program they started.

On August 28, 2009, the Office of Neighborhood Involvement and the Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct partnered to host the first Portland area prescription drug turn in event.

> CLICK HERE to read our story about this great event.

The research and planning efforts of Crime Prevention Specialists Jenni Bernheisel and Angel Wagnon paid off handsomely, taking off the streets more than 40 pounds of prescription drugs, with an estimated value of well over one hundred thousand dollars. For their efforts, Bernheisel and Wagnon, were awarded the Commendation Medal.

Commendation Medal awarded
for thwarting carjacking

East Precinct Officer John Maul smiles as Chief Sizer applauds him on his award.

On July 24, 2008, Portland Police Officer John Maul was off duty when he was traveling down NE Glisan Street on his way to meet some friends.

While approaching a red light at NE 148th he observed a male, dressed in dark clothing, run across the middle of Glisan Street.

On several instances the man was nearly hit by moving vehicles. The man approached and stopped a car and jerked the rear driver’s side door open and jumped in. The car made and erratic u-turn and headed westbound on NE Glisan.

Suspecting something was not right, Officer Maul followed the car. When he approached the car he drove up next to the left side he could see the occupants, both of whom seemed to be terrified and were motioning and mouthing the words “Help Us”. Officer Maul dropped back behind the vehicle and called 9-1-1.

As Officer Maul continued to follow the vehicle it pulled into a parking lot and the suspect exited the vehicle. Officer Maul immediately got out of his car, approached the suspect and was able to contain him until help arrived.

A crime had been committed, citizens had been in danger. In recognition of his actions during the incident, Maul was awarded the Commendation Medal.

Officer hooks up towing rip-off company

East Precinct Officer John Edwards helped put an end to a shady towing company’s dealings that ripped off citizens.

On March 11, 2008, Portland Police Officer John Edwards responded to a radio call that would ultimately begin an 18-month investigation. SET Towing held a vehicle and wouldn’t release it to the owner.

Edwards discovered that the vehicle had been stolen by a pair of thieves who operated a towing business called SET. Together the pair had stolen cars and trucks, threatened victims and witnesses, extorted tens of thousands of dollars from innocent people, and fraudulently obtained clean titles through the Oregon DMV by way of “possessory liens”.

Through his investigation Edwards spoke with dozens of people, and learned the details of how the two crooks operated their scam. He prepared a criminal case against the suspects and the two were ultimately found guilty of multiple felony crimes and are now serving time behind bars.

For his professionalism and thoroughness, Edwards, was awarded the Achievement Medal.

Gangsters made to clean up their mess,
by alert cops

East Precinct Sergeant Randy Teig and Officer Cory Stenzel listen as their commendation is read.

Over the past two years, outer East Portland has seen a significant increase in gang activity. During this time, a gang known as the Family Kings has been found to be involved in shootings, stabbings, and neighborhood graffiti vandalism resulting in damages upwards of $250,000.

Sergeant Randy Teig and Officer Cory Stenzel began identifying the gang members through graffiti “tags”. Using informants and social websites, they gathered intelligence on the Family King members and their associates.

With this information, Sergeant Teig and Officer Stenzel worked with the Portland Police Bureau Gang Enforcement Team and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office to seek criminal charges for the extensive vandalism for which the Family Kings were responsible.

With the help of volunteers and members of the Family Kings gang, Sergeant Teig and Officer Stenzel put together a day of service to paint over the graffiti caused by the gang. In addition to using gang members to repair the damage they had caused their community, 13 criminal cases were sent to the District Attorney for prosecution.

> To read our coverage of this story, CLICK HERE.

For their professionalism, their dedication, and their innovative ways of ridding a community of gang graffiti and violence, Sergeant Randy Teig and Officer Cory Stenzel, were awarded the Achievement Medal.

Officers go after alleged killers
in ‘Family Kings’ gang

Attendees learn how these two East Precinct officers, John Billard and Aaron Sparling, help get indictments against gangster killers.

In early 2009 Portland Police Officers John Billard and Aaron Sparling were paired up and assigned to a “gang car”, in response to increasing gang violence. They aggressively patrolled East Precinct for gang members and gang-related crimes.

Based on their contacts and research, they created an extensive amount of intelligence documenting local gang members and their associates – from their “street names” and graffiti tags, to flow charts highlighting entire street gangs and their hierarchy.

Most recently Billard and Sparling investigated a case leading to a secret indictment accusing several members of the Family Kings street gang of attempted murder. They developed this case while being required to cultivate and gain cooperation from several victims.

For their dedication and professionalism in reducing gangs and gang-related violent crime, Officer John Billard and Officer Aaron Sparling were awarded the Achievement Medal.

Anti-prostitution effort cleans up
82nd Avenue of Roses

These 23 individuals were given recognition for the part they played in reducing street-level prostitution in outer East Portland.

Portland’s 82nd Avenue of Roses has always been known for prostitution activity. By the summer of 2008, with the City Council elimination of the Prostitution Free Zone, prostitution on 82nd had reached an intolerable level. But by the summer of 2009, through the leadership of six individuals, 82nd Avenue made a dramatic change for the better.

> To read one of a dozen of our stories on this topic, CLICK HERE.

Portland Police East Precinct Commander Mike Crebs, Sergeant Dave Golliday, Officer Heath Kula, Deputy District Attorneys Jenna Plank and J.R. Ujifusa, and Mr. Brian Wong were instrumental in reducing prostitution from 82nd Avenue. Together, they examined and changed policies, conducted weekly missions, educated the District Attorney’s Office on how to implement processes, participated in public meetings, and set up neighborhood foot patrols.

In addition, other officers assisted in providing constant police prescence, as well as giving guidance and assistance to prostitutes who were either arrested or court-ordered to attend a treatment program.

Their effort has reduced prostitution, and they have made strides in improving livability in the area of 82nd Avenue of Roses.

Commander Mike Crebs, Sergeant David Golliday, Officer Heath Kula, Deputy District Attorneys Jenna Plank and J.R. Ujifusa, and Brian Wong were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for their efforts.

And, Officers Kris Barber, Scherise Hobbs, Heath Kula, Michael Gallagher, Erica Hurley, Joshua Howery, Michael Stevens, Natasha Haunsperger, Randi Miller, Sergeant Dave Golliday, Lieutenant Kevin Modica, FBI Special Agent Masayo Halpin, Kathleen Treb, Emmy Ritter, Beth Glisczinski, Terri Collins, and Audrianna Burr were awarded the Unit Commendation for their participation.

Officers risk their safety to save
victim in murder-suicide

East Precinct Officer David Rasmussen, Officer Lacey Sparling, Sergeant Randy Teig, Sergeant Jeff Helfrich, and Officer Sarah Kerwin rushed in to save a woman who’d been shot by her husband.

On May 2, 2009, East Precinct Officers were dispatched on a report of a shooting that had just occurred. The victim called 911 and said that her husband had just shot her three times. He had also shot himself, was still armed, and not moving. The victim complained of breathing troubles and being light-headed.

> [To see our coverage of this story, CLICK HERE.]

Officer David Rasmussen was dispatched and was first on the scene. Within minutes of arrival, Sergeants Randy Teig and Jeff Helfrich developed a tactical plan and assembled an entry team to begin their rescue of the victim.

Upon entry, Officers Lacey Sparling and Sarah Kerwin rushed to the victim’s aid while Officer Rasmussen secured the handgun, and Sergeants Teig and Helfrich secured the gunman.

Although the incident posed a significant threat to the victim as well as the entry team, the officers did not hesitate to act. Despite the inherent dangers to their own personal safety, they performed with extreme bravery and selflessness.

It is for these reasons; Sergeant Randy Teig, Sergeant Jeff Helfrich, Officer Lacey Sparling, Officer David Rasmussen, and Officer Sarah Kerwin were awarded the Lifesaving Medal.

Citizens sprint to corner gangster with gun

Accepting on behalf of the others at R-Boe’s automotive repair, Thomas Rogers stands with Chief Sizer.

On January 14, 2009, Brent Crooks, Thomas Rogers and Carlos Santiago were working in their auto repair shop in the Lents neighborhood, when they observed a car drive slowly through their lot and then begin to leave. As the car reached the street it stopped and at that point an unknown person approached the vehicle on foot, drew a pistol and began shooting at the car. The car sped away and the shooter fled on foot.

> We covered this story, as well. CLICK HERE to view it.

Despite the inherent danger to themselves, Crooks, Rogers, and Santiago chased the suspect on foot, keeping him in sight, in an effort to aid police. At one point the suspect stopped running and shot at the trio several times. After eventually losing sight of the suspect, the three men were able to give police very accurate descriptions of the suspect and the suspect’s actions. Based on the information they provided, the suspect was apprehended and charged with several counts of Attempted Aggravated Murder.

For their selfless actions and courage in aiding police officers, Brent Crooks, Thomas Rogers, and Carlos Santiago were awarded the Civilian Medal of Heroism.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See why there are many questions – and so far, no answers – about an unusual fire that also brought the police Major Crash Unit team to this flag-lot off SE 111th Avenue …

Firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue’s Truck 7 remain on-scene, as investigators hike back to examine the burnt hulk of a car tucked in the corner of a flag-lot.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The call that came in to the 9-1-1 Center at 4:28 p.m. on January 28 wasn’t all that odd. Neighbors reported seeing unusual smoke in the area. But what fire and police officials found when they responded was troubling: a partially charred body in a car.

Although Portland Fire & Rescue’s (PF&R) firefighters could clearly see the smoke of a brush fire, finding the location wasn’t easy – it was on one of outer East Portland’s “flag lots” located behind forward-sited homes.

Firefighters first approached the fire off the 10900 block of SE Schiller Street – and later shifted a block east and south, entering a long driveway that took them back to 4915 SE 111th Ave.

“When we arrived on-scene, there was a fire behind the house, behind the shed, on the flag lot,” PF&R spokesperson Kim Kosmas told us at the scene. “But instead of finding a grass fire, firefighters saw a car burning. The burning car caused some of the brambles around it to catch on fire. That fire was quickly extinguished.”

Even though it was said simply to be a fire investigation, yellow police tape at the scene prevented entry to the flag-lot.

Kosmas said while it looked as if the vehicle lit up the underbrush, investigators said how or why the car ignited in flames had not been determined. “Firefighters did find a deceased person, a male victim, in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. Right now, little is known about the situation; three investigators are on-scene.”

We pointed out that the scene was surrounded with yellow police tape – not fire bureau tape. “Police are keeping people out of the area; they are on-scene,” Kosmas conceded.

Soon, the Police Bureau’s Major Crash Team van and investigators arrived; their crew walked back to the burn site, well out of view from SE 111th Avenue. About their involvement, Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat simply told us that PF&R investigators were handling the investigation.

Firefighters and police remained on scene well into the evening hours – but the results of their findings has yet to be revealed.

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

Find out why authorities say this accident didn’t have to happen – and who they say is at fault …

SE Foster Road was closed for hours, allowing members of the Portland Police Bureau Traffic Division Major Crash Team to examine evidence at the scene, after a man was struck by an SUV.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
At 7:20 p.m., it had been dark for hours, when word came of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle on SE Foster Road, just east of SE 122nd Avenue, on January 23.

“This guy took off running through traffic,” said eyewitness Seth Edwards. “He was dodging traffic. I don’t think the car that hit him had a chance to stop or miss him. He got hit so hard, it looked like it knocked him out of his shoes.”

First responders checked the man’s pulse – and found none. It looked as if the 44-year-old man was dead at the scene.

Nevertheless, paramedics quickly scooped up the victim and rushed him to OHSU. On the way, they managed to revive him. Still, according to the radio calls, it was obvious that the man was very seriously injured.

Investigators came to believe the pedestrian’s actions, alone, caused this accident here in outer East Portland.

“The driver of the vehicle that hit the pedestrian remained at the scene and cooperated with police,” reported Portland Police Bureau spokesperson Detective Mary Wheat.
The Bureau’s Major Crash Team rolled up to the scene and began investigating this incident. They took measurements, and processed all available evidence, with Foster Road closed to traffic.

“Investigators determined that the pedestrian was crossing [SE Foster Road from] south to north,” Wheat reported. “The driver was traveling westbound on 122nd when the accident occurred.  Witnesses reported that the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk, and walked in front of one car, before walking in front of the vehicle that hit him.”

For days, the victim clung to life at OHSU Hospital in critical condition, before he died from the injuries sustained in the accident, Wheat later said. “The name of the man is not being released until police can positively identify him.”

Officials say the driver of this Ford SUV cooperated with police, and wasn’t found at fault in this accident.

Wheat noted, “Investigators do not believe speed or alcohol was a factor in this incident, and the driver was not cited.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News

See what Commander Mike Reese plans for East Precinct as he leads the 200+ police officers who serve outer East Portland and beyond …

Seated next to Argay Neighborhood’s Valerie Curry at his first East Precinct Citizens Advisory meeting, newly-minted Commander Mike Reese listens to neighbors’ concerns.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After a relatively long tenure in outer East Portland, Portland Police Bureau (PPB) East Precinct Commander Michael Crebs was assigned to the command post for the bureau’s Detective Division.

>> CLICK HERE to read about Commander Crebs’ send-off!

On the cusp of the New Year, East Precinct had a new commander; he introduced himself to the community early in the year.

Introducing Commander Mike Reese
On January 5, the East Precinct Citizens Advisory Group reconvened under the leadership of the newly-appointed East Precinct Commander, Mike Reese.

Reese sketched out his career, starting as a Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Patrol Deputy in 1989. He transferred to the Portland Police Bureau in 1994, and moved up through the ranks as he worked at different Bureau assignments.

As a lieutenant, Reese served with the Transit Division, and then North Precinct, before joining the bureau’s Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT). In 2004, he was promoted to the rank of Captain of the Drugs and Vice Division.

His most recent assignment was Central Precinct Commander. Central now reaches east to S.E. 39th in inner Southeast Portland.

A believer in Community Policing
“I ‘grew up’ in law enforcement with the concept of Community Policing,” Reese told the group. “But it’s not only that Community Policing was coming into vogue during my formative years – I really believe in it. More than that, as a new officer, I really enjoyed building relationships with the community, and saw how those relationships lead to safer communities.”

Reese added that his role that evening was to facilitate the meeting, and listen to the community he was serving. With that, he called on his command staff to give information and reports; then solicited comments from community members present.

One-on-one with Commander Reese
Because its Commander sets the tone for law enforcement throughout the Precinct, we wanted to learn more about Mike Reese. A couple of weeks ago, the new Commander sat down with us in his office, and spoke candidly about his management style and his goals for the Precinct.

Law enforcement wasn’t his first job out of college, we learned – he was first the Director of the Lents Boys and Girls Club on S.E. Harold at S.E. 92nd Avenue for about six years.

“It’s funny how life has these little twist and turns of fate,” Reese said. “I was finishing up my senior year at Portland State University, and needed to do a practicum as part of the psychology program, for my degree.”

He fulfilled this practicum by volunteering as a Big Brother at the club, and eventually was asked to take the Director’s position after graduation.

Chose the Portland Police Bureau
After much of East Multnomah County had been annexed by the City of Portland, many MCSO deputies were forced to transfer to the Portland Police Bureau (PPB). During a later round of transfers, senior deputies were given the option to join the Portland Police. “I took the transfer; I think it was a good decision. It worked out well for me.”

After he took off his green MCSO uniform and put on the PPB Blues, Reese was initially assigned to East Precinct. “Being named Commander here at East Precinct is like coming full circle.”

Commander Mike Reese says he’s “grown up” with Community Policing and continues to see its value.

“As I said at the Citizens Advisory Group meeting, from the management perspective, I ‘grew up’ with the concept of Community Policing.

“It is different from the standard policing model of law enforcement, which reacts to problems in the community. Instead, we are engaged in problem-solving. What I want to see from my officers at East precinct is this style of policing. That is, being engaged with the community, and developing as good a relationship with neighbors, business people, and social services providers, as we have with other parts of law enforcement.”

About the staff with whom he works, Reese commented, “The officers here are doing very good, creative police work; that hasn’t changed since I was here 15 years ago.” What has changed, he said, are the demographics; many former “inner city problems” have shifted to East Portland, as other areas have gentrified.

While Reese said he appreciates the responsibility the Bureau has given him by naming him to the post, “The best part is that I’m able to learn, by working with more than 200 officers – many of whom I haven’t worked with before. They’re doing great work.

“My job is to make sure that they have the resources to continue what they’re doing; and at the same time, provide a common purpose and focus for our efforts.”

Reese says he’ll be asking members of the community to help him focus the precinct’s energies on the most pressing problems in outer East Portland.

Priorities for Outer East Portland
Instead of dictating the focus of Precinct officers’ efforts, Reese said he’ll take his cue from the citizens in Outer East Portland.

“I’m looking forward to a dialogue; a synergy around moving forward on major issues. “If we decide that gang activity is the most pressing concern, or that a certain corridor is becoming a hotspot for crime and social disorder, we’ll focus or efforts there. I want the community to ask us what resources we’re willing to put forward, and will also ask the community how they’re willing to support us.”

Sees Inner SE Portland from a new perspective
Having most recently been in charge of policing Inner Southeast Portland east to S.E. 39th Avenue at Central Precinct, after the assignment reconfiguration, Reese remarked that that position gave him a good perspective on his new assignment.

“There are challenges in covering the western part of East Precinct – it is a vast geographic area,” Reese conceded. “We have district officers who really take ownership of their patrol districts. The district officers who were working in those areas before the precinct splits are still working there. These officers have shown that they’re really committed to their neighborhoods; they’ll continue to work with their neighborhood associations, being responsive to their concerns.”

The new Commander said part of his job is making sure all districts – even those in Inner Southeast Portland – have adequate resources and are covered by officers who know the area. “We’ll be there in full force, and fully-engaged in policing, right down to 39th Avenue.”

East Precinct Captain William Walker welcomes Commander Mike Reese to the Precinct, in the building’s lobby.

Asked how he feels about direct citizen contact, Reese replied, “I think it’s very positive. I prefer e-mail (mreese@Portlandpolice.org) – or they can call me at (503) 823-4350.”

© 2010 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News