
In a riveting conclusion to a high-speed crime saga that took place in July 2023, Eric Clayton Strietzel, 38, has been convicted on several charges by a Multnomah County jury. Strietzel became notorious for stealing a tow truck and engaging in a dangerous pursuit, reaching speeds of up to 84 miles per hour with the truck's operator clinging perilously to the back. According to a report by the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, the jury concluded that Strietzel's actions not only put the operator at risk but also endangered the public.
The trial, which spanned from Tuesday to Friday, featured Deputy District Attorney Chris Shull representing the state and took place before Judge Leslie Bottomly. Despite being acquitted on charges of Robbery in the First Degree and Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Strietzel was found guilty of several felonies and misdemeanors, including Assault in the Second Degree and Theft in the First Degree. "I think the jury took the evidence seriously and returned a verdict that reflected the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct," Shull was quoted saying in a statement to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office. "They concluded this wasn’t just reckless but that Mr. Stritzel knew he was going to cause physical injury to Mr. Christ. Mr. Christ could have easily been killed in the course of this driving."
Other charges leading to Strietzel's conviction include Unlawful Use of a Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Two counts of Assault in the Third Degree, Four counts of Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, and Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver. Strietzel is now facing a minimum sentence of 70 months in prison with sentencing proceedings scheduled for February 21, 2025. The District Attorney's office has expressed gratitude towards PPB Sergeants DiMatteo and Kenney and MCDA victim advocates Nang Dunn and Suzanne Rapagnani for their dedicated work which contributed to successfully resolving this case.
The events leading up to the dangerous chase began with Strietzel's theft of the tow truck, followed by a high-speed escape that could've resulted in tragic outcomes. After the arduous legal battle, the efforts of law enforcement and the legal team were not in vain, as the guilty verdict stands to send a strong message to any would-be offenders who might dare to similarly endanger lives recklessly.