On a typical Thursday morning at the Washington County Circuit Courthouse in Hillsboro, things took a swift turn towards the dramatic when local deputies were called to respond to a bomb threat. According to the official press release from the Washington County Sheriff's Office, the threat was reported shortly after 9 a.m. and the courthouse at 145 NE 2nd Avenue was quickly emptied of personnel and visitors
The evacuation was completed without incident, and deputies conducted an extensive search, room-by-room to ensure the safety of the public, the Portland Metro Explosives Disposal Unit, FBI, ATF and the Port of Portland were all in on the search, which spanned not just the courthouse but adjoining buildings as well after they found nothing, it was considered the threat likely a hoax. This disruption caused a serious inconvenience for those involved in legal proceedings, with assurances that those affected would have their matters rescheduled and proceedings after 1 p.m. expected to occur without further delay.
No explosive devices were found at the courthouse, leading authorities to believe the threat was unfounded. While the courthouse resumed operations in the afternoon, the investigation into the origins of the hoax is active and ongoing, as law enforcement officials urge anyone with information related to the bomb threat to contact the non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111, referencing case number 50-25-15241.
The Washington County Sheriff's Office, having dealt with the immediate threat, is now focused on tracing back the call that led to the morning's tumult, public safety and the integrity of the legal process remain their utmost concern, court attendees and employees, for whom the day began with unexpected chaos, have been assured of their rescheduled court dates, and the courthouse has returned to its lawful rhythm. Anyone with information about this incident who has not spoken to an investigator is still encouraged to reach out to law enforcement.
