Gresham police have arrested a 39-year-old man after he allegedly fired a gun and made threats to his neighbors in Gresham. The incident occurred near a Safeway parking lot, prompting a shelter-in-place order for residents in the area. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.
The suspect, identified as Gino Brown, was taken into custody by Gresham police officers shortly after 8:30 a.m. Officer Jarom Sweazey, spokesperson for the Gresham Police Department, stated that Brown passed out during his arrest. Before being booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center, Brown was evaluated at a local hospital for precautionary reasons.
Multiple individuals contacted the police at 4:42 a.m. after hearing gunshots emanating from behind the local Safeway. Moments later, a resident from an apartment complex adjacent to the grocery store dialed 911 to report that someone was banging on their front door, making threats to those inside. Law enforcement officers discovered that the suspect had retreated to his own apartment within the same complex.
For the safety of the neighborhood, the police advised residents to remain indoors while they negotiated with Brown, who was armed, and encouraged him to exit the apartment peacefully. After approximately three hours, Brown eventually left his residence and promptly collapsed in front of the police, prompting a quick response from officers who took him to a hospital as a precautionary measure.
A subsequent search of Brown’s apartment, authorized by a search warrant, revealed the presence of multiple firearms, as well as what appeared to be drugs. Among the discovered items were marijuana products, a scale, packaging related to a fentanyl test strip, and two plastic bags containing white powder, all of which were photographed by law enforcement personnel.
According to court records, Brown has a history of criminal convictions. In 2014, he was convicted in Multnomah County Circuit Court for first-degree burglary and coercion. In 2017, he faced further convictions for fourth-degree assault and coercion. Additionally, in the same year, Brown pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Oregon to charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, resulting in a sentence of three years and ten months in federal prison.
The Gresham Police Department is actively investigating the incident and will proceed with legal action accordingly. As of now, no further details have been released in relation to the motive behind Brown’s actions. Authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
This incident has left the community shaken but grateful that no one was harmed. The local residents are commending the swift response of law enforcement officers in ensuring their safety throughout the ordeal. The Gresham Police Department will continue to serve and protect the community, working diligently to maintain peace and order in the area.
