PORTLAND, Ore. — A 43-year-old Portland man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for a violent crime spree involving four women and a child in Southeast Portland on March 15, 2026, court officials announced.
Judson Defir was sentenced on Case No. 26CR14608 after being found guilty in Multnomah County Circuit Court of Kidnapping in the First Degree, Attempted Rape in the First Degree, three counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Attempted Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Public Indecency, and Recklessly Endangering Another Person.
The sentence was handed down by Multnomah County Circuit Judge Celia Howes.
Prosecutors: “Devastating impact on victims and community”
Senior Deputy District Attorney Melissa Marrero prosecuted the case for the state, describing the defendant’s actions as having a lasting and widespread impact on the victims and the surrounding community.
She credited the victims’ quick thinking and coordination in helping law enforcement rapidly apprehend the suspect, saying their actions “very likely saved other victims from being swept up in his crime spree.”
Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez also addressed the outcome, calling the 22-year sentence an important step toward accountability and community safety, and praising the victims’ strength throughout the court process.
The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and the Portland Police Bureau thanked investigators from the Sex Crimes Unit and Detective Nathan Wollstein for their work on the case, as well as victim advocate Suzanne Rapanani for her support to those affected.
“A crime spree” across church, home, and street
According to court records and testimony, the incidents began on a warm spring day when Defir entered a church in Southeast Portland and forcibly grabbed a woman during service while she was with her children. The woman’s scream alerted congregants, and the suspect fled the scene.
Shortly afterward, he entered a nearby residence where a mother was inside caring for her 10-month-old and three-year-old children while the children’s father was outside working in the yard.
The victim told investigators she heard someone enter the home and ascend the stairs saying, “Honey I’m here,” before encountering an unknown man at her bedroom doorway. She later described him as unwashed and smelling of body odor.
Defir then allegedly grabbed the woman while she held her infant child, forcibly moved her into another room, and attempted to assault her. During the struggle, the victim was able to break free, secure her children, and barricade herself before fleeing to safety and calling for help. Family members and nearby churchgoers responded to assist as the suspect fled the home.
Additional assaults and swift arrest
Prosecutors said Defir continued his actions after leaving the residence, sexually assaulting a woman walking on a nearby street and attempting to assault another woman who was able to escape. He also exposed himself in public during the incident.
Police reported that approximately 15 community members followed and pointed out the suspect as officers arrived, leading to his immediate arrest.
Sentence brings case to a close
Defir’s 22-year prison sentence resolves the criminal case and ensures long-term incarceration following what prosecutors described as a coordinated effort between victims, witnesses, and law enforcement.
Officials said the case underscores the importance of rapid reporting, community involvement, and coordinated response in preventing further harm during violent incidents.
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