According to the sheriff’s office, two guys from Portland were taken into custody after driving a stolen car through private backyards early on Tuesday morning.
Deputies were called to a suspicious vehicles near Southwest Elderbrook Place after two guys were allegedly observed using flashlights to examine the handles of the car doors. The suspects escaped in a stolen 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, drove through backyards of homes, and crashed into a ditch after cops confronted them at Southwest Spring Crest Drive and 95th Avenue, according to the deputies.
Westly Deitas, 32, the driver, is charged with several offenses, including reckless driving, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and evading or trying to avoid a police officer. Heamasi Mohulamu, 30, the passenger, is charged with possessing a stolen car, possessing a controlled narcotic, and being a criminal in possession of a weapon.
Deitas is also charged with other offenses related to different incidences in 2024. In one, he is charged with illegally possessing a weapon. According to Portland police, he took a vehicle, drove it to 90 mph, collided with a Saab, and then attempted to flee. Authorities claimed to have discovered an AR-15-style firearm inside the pilfered truck.
A 2013 conviction for felony robbery is on Mohulamu’s record. He was charged by Portland police in October of hiding in a public restroom, throwing away tablets, and evading an officer who suspected him of drug use.
Residents in the West Haven area are being asked to report any more thefts from Tuesday to 503-629-0111 after deputies discovered a handgun in the stolen car.
Chiara Profenna discusses faith, religion, and cultural ties. You may contact her at [email protected] or @chiaraprofenna, or 503-221-4327.
