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Label:
Press release
The suspect in a bias crime has been identified.
Published
Updated
Based on community tips, the man who drew a swastika on the door frame of a Northeast Portland business on June 14, 2025, has been identified as Joseph Thompson. The 38-year-old was located in the Multnomah County Detention Center where he had been lodged on separate charges since early July.
On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the charge of Bias Crime in the Second Degree was levied against Thompson in connection to the June incident.
PPB would like to thank the community for assistance with this case.
###PPB###
***Original Message Below***
PPB Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in Bias Crime Targeting Local Business
The Portland Police Bureau is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a bias crime targeting a Northeast Portland business.
On June 17, 2025, officers responded to a vandalism report at a business in the 2700 block of Northeast Broadway Street. An employee at the business reported that on June 14, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., an unidentified male approached the entrance of the business, muttered profanities, and drew a swastika on the door frame before walking away.
The targeted business' employees and clients possess vast racial, cultural, and religious identities. That, coupled with a Pride flag that has been displayed outside the business and the theft of a menorah last November, further raises questions about the suspect's intent.
PPB takes reports of bias crimes and hate-based incidents seriously and the Major Crimes Team has launched an investigation.
PPB is releasing photos of the suspect in hopes that someone recognizes the individual. Anyone who does recognize the suspect is asked to contact crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-160565.
###PPB###