Anthony Yates
Authorities have reportedly arrested a man after a witness spotted him entering a crawlspace at a complex. Officers believe he had been living there for “an extended period of time.”
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What happened: The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office posted a news release about their unusual discovery. Officers responded to “investigate a suspicious circumstance” at around 11 PM on September 3. The incident occurred at a condominium complex on SE Old Town Court near Happy Valley, Oregon.
- A witness told authorities they spotted a man parking his car and walking behind one of the buildings. When the witness went to investigate, they noticed the crawlspace door was open and light was shining from inside. The news release explains that the door then closed.
- Deputies noted that the door to the crawlspace was damaged and that a lock had been installed. They also observed an extension cord running through a vent. They spoke with the owner, who confirmed that nobody was supposed to be down there, nor should there have been any lights.
- The owner reportedly told authorities that he had heard “strange noises” coming from the crawlspace.
Deputies Had To Breach The Door To Access The Crawlspace
The keys no longer worked: The news release explains that the owner gave deputies keys to the crawlspace, but they did not work. They breached the door and found a man living inside.
- Authorities have identified the man as 40-year-old Beniamin Bucur. Investigators believe he was living there for “an extended period of time.” Officials also pointed out that Bucur had taken “significant steps” to make the crawlspace livable.
- Those steps included installing a bed and lighting. Bucur reportedly had a TV and was using electricity from the building to power other devices.
- Authorities also noted that they found a “pipe with white residue,” which tested positive for methamphetamine. It remains unclear how long Bucur had stayed inside the crawlspace.
Authorities charged the suspect with First Degree Burglary and Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine. He was booked into Clackamas County Jail with bail set at $75,000. Police are asking for anyone with information to get in touch.
