DA Mike Schmidt announced today that the newly established Auto Theft Task Force has made its first high-profile arrest. Jesse Dane Brower, 24, was arrested this afternoon in Northeast Portland after a search warrant was executed at his home on probable cause that he has been involved in multiple car thefts over the past several months.
Based on information brought forward by law enforcement, Deputy DA Cody Linderholm has been working with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and the Portland Police Bureau to investigate Brower. That investigation uncovered multiple facts implicating Brower as a serial car thief and enough evidence for DDA Linderholm to assist in obtaining a search warrant for his home.
As part of a PPB stolen vehicle operation, members of the Task Force executed the search warrant this afternoon, finding evidence related to dozens of stolen cars and many different stolen car parts at Brower’s home. He was arrested and booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Felony Elude, Misdemeanor Elude, Reckless Driving, and Possession of Burglary tools. More charges from today’s warrant will be forthcoming.
DDA Linderholm said, “One of the top priorities of the Auto Theft Task Force is to identify and target prolific offenders, and this case is the first to that effect. I look forward to our continued collaboration as the Task Force works to combat car theft across the county.”
DA Schmidt said, “A car can truly be a lifeline for many in our community, and when that is taken away, it can have devastating effects on that person’s life and livelihood. Car theft is simply unacceptable. By focusing our resources on people creating a disproportionate amount of harm, we will see better public safety in our communities.”
Today’s arrest was a result of collaboration among a number of agencies. The DA’s Office thanks the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, PPB East NRT, PPB East Precinct SVO Detail, PPB SERT, and the Multnomah County Department of Community Justice for their assistance.
This case remains under investigation. DDA Linderholm expects further charges pending indictment. In addition, Brower is currently on probation. Due to the results of today’s warrant, he faces the potential of 18 months or more of prison time on a probation revocation. The DA’s Office will provide updates as this case progresses.
