The Portland Police Bureau has successfully apprehended a suspect in a shocking case of animal abuse that gripped the community earlier this month. 25-year-old Isaac Booker Justham, a Portland resident, was taken into custody following collaborative efforts from North and Central Precinct officers, the Major Crimes Unit detectives, and crucial community tips, according to an official update from Portland Police.
Previously, the PPB had released a surveillance video capturing the harrowing incident involving a dog on August 2. Detectives could pinpoint Justham as the alleged perpetrator with the public's assistance. After receiving reports of his sighting, law enforcement moved quickly yesterday to surveil and eventually confront the suspect in the Pearl District's vicinity. His arrest was facilitated without resistance at the intersection of Northwest 13th Avenue and Northwest Flanders Street.
Following his apprehension, Justham reported consuming fentanyl, which warranted immediate medical attention. After being cleared by medical professionals, he was taken to Central Precinct for questioning. There, he declined to disclose the abused dog's current location when detectives sought his cooperation to ensure the animal received vital medical care, explained in the police news release.
Justice seemed to be on its way as Justham was booked at the Multnomah County Detention Center, facing three felony counts of Aggravated Animal Abuse in the First Degree on top of several outstanding warrants. The community's role in aiding the police did not go unnoticed. Receiving thanks through the PPB update also reiterated the call for ongoing assistance in locating the victimized dog. Detectives urge anyone with information to contact Detective Matthew Brown at [email protected], citing case number 24-803427.
A photo provided captures the moment two Portland Police officers escort the handcuffed Justham down the street, documenting the outcome of a societal refusal to stand idly as a creature is harshly mistreated.
