Nathaniel Cheney Pleads Guilty

A brazen act of vandalism has resulted in the guilty plea of Nathaniel Cheney, 31, of Centralia, Washington, for damaging an energy facility in the Portland area.

According to court documents, on November 28, 2022, Cheney and others caused $26,000 of damage to the Sunnyside substation in Clackamas, Oregon, by damaging the control equipment necessary for the operation of the substation. This reckless act put the entire community at risk and highlights the importance of protecting critical infrastructure.

The investigation into the incident was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh and Geoffrey Barrow, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

Cheney pleaded guilty to one count of damaging an energy facility and faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on February 18, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge. As part of the plea agreement, Cheney has agreed to pay restitution in full as recommended by the government.

The guilty plea is a significant development in the case and demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to holding individuals accountable for their actions. The prosecution of Cheney sends a strong message that damaging critical infrastructure will not be tolerated and will be met with serious consequences.

The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community. It also underscores the need for increased security measures to protect energy facilities and other critical infrastructure from potential threats. As the case moves forward, the community will be watching to see that justice is served and that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

In a statement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon emphasized the importance of protecting critical infrastructure and the commitment to prosecuting those who engage in acts of vandalism and destruction. The case against Nathaniel Cheney serves as a reminder that the justice system will not tolerate acts of violence and destruction, and that those responsible will be brought to justice.