Two men were apprehended earlier this week in Washington County after deputies responded to a tip about a suspicious Chrysler Pacifica; the vehicle was later confirmed to be stolen. As reported by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the call came in the early hours of January 7, with residents of the West Haven neighborhood reporting individuals checking car door handles with flashlights.
Wesley Deitas, 32, and Heamasi Mohulamu, 30, both from Portland, were involved in the pursuit that followed when deputies attempted a traffic stop. The driver accelerated, leading authorities on a chase through residential areas before crashing into a ditch. Both men were detained, and weapons and controlled substances were found on them.
Deitas is now facing a string of charges: unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, attempt to elude, hit and run, reckless driving, reckless endangering, carrying a concealed firearm, and criminal mischief, while Mohulamu's list includes possession of a stolen vehicle, felon in possession of a weapon, and possession of a controlled substance.
While the stolen 2018 Chrysler Pacifica has been recovered, deputies believe there may be more to the story. The area where the vehicle misconduct occurred, near SW Elderbrook Place, could have more victims. Community members who witnessed anything unusual are encouraged to contact the non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111 as the investigation continues.
