A local man in Portland, Oregon is facing federal charges after assaulting and injuring a court security officer at the Pioneer Federal Courthouse. The man, Jett Avery Thomas, has been charged with assaulting an employee of the United States with a dangerous weapon and causing bodily injury. According to court documents, Thomas threw an object at the courthouse and charged up the front steps, forcing his way in and attacking the officer. The officer was able to defend himself by firing two shots into Thomas’ torso. Thomas was apprehended and is now facing a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison if convicted. This case was investigated by the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service with assistance from the Federal Protective Service and Portland Police Bureau.
Portland Man Charged with Assaulting a Federal Officer
Charges and Arrest
Jett Avery Thomas, a resident of Portland, is facing federal charges after assaulting and injuring a court security officer at the Pioneer Federal Courthouse in downtown Portland. Thomas has been charged with assaulting an employee of the United States with a dangerous weapon and causing bodily injury. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on the morning of July 3, 2023, when Thomas threw an object at the courthouse and then charged up the front steps. The court security officer attempted to secure the door, but Thomas forced it open and proceeded to physically assault the officer.
Events Leading Up to the Assault
On the morning of July 3, 2023, Jett Avery Thomas threw an object at the Pioneer Federal Courthouse in downtown Portland. This action prompted a court security officer to approach Thomas. Instead of cooperating, Thomas charged up the front steps of the courthouse, prompting the officer to retreat inside and attempt to secure the door. However, Thomas managed to force the door open, leading to the physical assault on the officer.
The Assault on the Officer
After entering the courthouse, Jett Avery Thomas forcefully opened the door and assaulted the court security officer. During the assault, Thomas used a dangerous weapon and placed the officer in a chokehold. The struggle continued outside the door, with Thomas repeatedly striking the officer with a hard object. In response, the officer drew his service weapon and fired two shots into Thomas’ torso, ultimately apprehending him.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
As a result of the assault, the court security officer sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. The officer’s injuries were assessed, and appropriate medical care was provided. After receiving treatment, the officer was later released from the hospital. Jett Avery Thomas also sustained injuries during the altercation and underwent surgery at a local hospital to address his injuries.
First Court Appearance
Jett Avery Thomas will make his first court appearance at a later date in federal court. The specific date and location of the court appearance will be determined and announced accordingly. The purpose of the first court appearance will be to formally present the charges against Thomas and to establish the legal proceedings moving forward.
Potential Sentence if Convicted
If convicted of assaulting a federal officer, Jett Avery Thomas faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. However, the actual sentence may vary depending on various factors, including the severity of the assault, any prior criminal history, and the presence of any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Ultimately, the decision on the sentence will be made by the presiding judge.
Investigative Agencies
The investigation into the assault on the court security officer involves multiple law enforcement agencies. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Marshals Service are leading the investigation, with assistance from the Federal Protective Service and the Portland Police Bureau. These agencies are working collaboratively to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation.
Prosecuting Attorney
Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, is the prosecuting attorney assigned to the case against Jett Avery Thomas. As the prosecuting attorney, Kerin is responsible for representing the government in the legal proceedings and presenting the evidence to support the charges against Thomas. Kerin will work closely with law enforcement agencies to build a strong case and seek justice.
Presumption of Innocence
It is important to note that Jett Avery Thomas is presumed innocent until proven guilty. A criminal complaint is merely an accusation of a crime and does not constitute a conviction. Thomas will have the opportunity to present his defense and challenge the evidence presented against him during the legal proceedings. The presumption of innocence ensures that defendants are given a fair and impartial trial.
Related Content
This case involving Jett Avery Thomas’s assault on a federal officer is not the only recent criminal case in the state of Oregon. Other notable cases include the indictment of an Oregon man for animal abuse and firearms possession, the conviction of a southern Oregon man for boobytrapping a home, and the sentencing of a drug trafficker involved in a kidnapping and murder case. These cases highlight the diverse nature of criminal activity and law enforcement efforts in the state of Oregon.
In conclusion, the assault on a federal officer by Jett Avery Thomas is a serious crime that carries severe consequences. The charges and arrest of Thomas, along with the events leading up to the assault and the injuries sustained by the officer, provide a comprehensive understanding of the incident. The first court appearance, potential sentence if convicted, and involvement of investigative agencies and the prosecuting attorney reflect the criminal justice system’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions. The presumption of innocence ensures a fair and just legal process. This case is just one example of the ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and uphold the principles of justice in Portland, Oregon.