UPDATE: A former U.S. Army soldier has been sentenced to two years in prison for shooting out traffic cameras across Portland, Oregon. Chase Grijalva, 30, pleaded guilty to multiple charges including unlawful use of a firearm, resulting in over $50,000 in damages.
On Wednesday, Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Lavin sentenced Grijalva to 24 months in prison and imposed five years of probation, during which he is prohibited from possessing firearms. If he violates probation terms, he could face an additional 60 months in prison. The total restitution owed is $55,548.20.
Authorities report that Grijalva’s shooting spree began on May 27, 2024, targeting red light and speeding cameras in a series of incidents spanning two weeks. In total, 17 cameras were damaged across 12 locations. The first shooting occurred early in the morning at Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Lloyd Boulevard, followed by additional incidents within hours.
The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Grijalva’s reckless actions instilled fear within the community. Deputy District Attorney Aileen Santoyo stated, “Mr. Grijalva’s actions were extremely dangerous and caused a sense of alarm in the community.”
Grijalva was apprehended on June 10 after witnesses reported the shooting of a camera at Southeast 122nd Avenue and Southeast Stark Street. Police discovered five shell casings at the scene and arrested him shortly thereafter. Grijalva admitted to authorities that he had been shooting cameras for over a week, claiming he had targeted seven.
Despite a history of only a few speeding tickets and no prior criminal record, Grijalva’s motivations were highlighted in a notebook found in his apartment. He viewed the cameras as tools of government oppression, describing them as “the eyes of extortion.”
Officer Brent Taylor of the Portland Police testified that Grijalva believed these cameras were simply the government’s way to “rob the poor.” His statements and writings paint a troubling picture of a man who saw himself as a martyr against what he perceived as unfair practices.
The community now grapples with the aftermath of Grijalva’s actions, which not only caused significant property damage but also raised concerns about public safety. As the legal repercussions unfold, residents are left questioning the implications of such reckless behavior and the impact on local governance.
What happens next? Grijalva will begin serving his sentence and will be monitored closely during his probation period. His case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of violent actions against public property and the ongoing debate over traffic enforcement measures.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
