A 10-year-old girl kidnapped in Oregon City was found duct-taped inside a closet during a multi-agency raid, and a suspect is now in custody without bail.
Vince Edgar Chavez, 35, was arraigned on 10 felony charges, including attempted murder, kidnapping, assault, sexual abuse, sodomy, burglary, and unlawful use of a weapon, according to court records.
Hammer attack and abduction
The U.S. Marshals Service arrested Chavez after he allegedly broke into an apartment and assaulted two girls, ages 10 and 12, with a hammer. Following the attack, he reportedly carried out sexual offences against the 10-year-old, according to court documents.
US Marshals, alongside a Washington County negotiating team, Oregon City Police officers, and a SWAT unit from Clackamas County, stormed a property on the 500 block of Pleasant Avenue in Oregon City as Chavez reportedly attempted to flee from the back of the building. He was detained without incident, authorities confirmed.
Coordinated rescue effort
The abducted youngster was discovered bound and locked in a cupboard within the property. She was subsequently transferred to a nearby hospital to receive treatment for her injuries, the US Marshals Service confirmed.
“The Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force along with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and Canby Police Department led this coordinated effort, bringing together resources to ensure the safe recovery of a kidnapped child,” District of Oregon Chief Deputy United States Marshal Eddie Sanchez said in a release. “This case demonstrates the power of collaboration and our unwavering commitment to protecting our communities and holding violent offenders accountable.”
Next steps and ongoing investigation
Both girls received medical treatment, and their parents are working with the authorities. Police said there is a link between Chavez and the family but did not offer additional details.
Chavez's next court appearance is set for November 5. He remains in custody without the option of bail.
