On July 18, 2023, at 2:15 a.m., officers responded to the call of a man masturbating in the 12500 Block of Southeast Powell Boulevard. The first arriving officer attempted to convince the subject to cease, put on this clothing, and leave the area. The subject refused her request and continued. Officers took the subject into custody, and based on their interaction with him believed his criminal activity was influence by his mental state. Instead of being charged with a crime, the subject was transported to a local hospital, and placed on a Police Officer’s Hold for a mental health evaluation.
On August 6, 2023, a student at McDaniel High School called 911 to report that a man who did not work at the school was on school grounds and had removed sports equipment. When officers arrived, they were flagged down by two students who told them the suspect was sitting on school equipment while “touching himself.” One of the children told officers the suspect was “masturbating” while looking directly at them. Officers found and arrested 37-year-old Dustin Lee Knieriem, the same subject from the July 18th incident. Knieriem was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on charges of Burglary in the Second Degree (2 counts), Public Indecency (2 counts), Theft in the Second Degree, Theft in the Third Degree, and on a Parole Violation.
Knieriem was released by order of the court on his own recognizance. Based on statements made by Knieriem to arresting officers, and due to his escalating behavior, they have reason to believe he may attempt to sexually harm children. A parole violation warrant has been issued for his arrest. The Portland Police Bureau is asking anyone who sees Knieriem to immediately call 911. Special vigilance is requested around schools and other areas that cater to children.
Dustin Lee Knieriem is described as a 5’10” white male, 37 years old, weighing approximately 210 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes, and a tan complexion. Knieriem was last seen wearing the black McDaniel High School track uniform he is pictured in.
Anyone who sees Knieriem is asked to immediately call 911.
If anyone has information about crimes committed by Knieriem, please e-mail crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov .
