Early Morning Police Chase, Standoff Ends In Arrest Near Molalla

MOLALLA, OR — After threatening to sexually assault his ex-girlfriend with the help of his friends, and then leading police on a short car chase south of Molalla, a Portland man was arrested by Clackamas County Sheriff's deputies Monday.

Phillip Garett Dominguez, 38, was lodged at the Clackamas County Jail on charges of burglary, menacing, harassment, and attempt to elude police. His bail is set at $64,000.

According to sheriff's officials, Dominguez's ex-girlfriend called 911 shortly after 12 a.m. Aug. 7 when Dominguez threatened to come to her home in the 36400-block of South Sawtell Road in order to sexually assault her and damage her home and car — reportedly with the help of his friends.

While speaking with the female caller, a deputy reported hearing a disturbance in the background. The caller told the deputy that Dominguez had tried to force his way into the house before leaving in a car. As he left, Dominguez allegedly rammed the caller's vehicle with his, officials said. The caller also reportedly told the deputy that Dominguez was carrying a handgun in the waistband of his trousers.

Around 12:45 a.m., Dominguez was spotted on South Sawtell Road by Molalla police, officials said. Following a short car chase, Dominguez reportedly stopped the car near the 33500-block of South Sawtell Road where he and one of his two passengers — Brayan Ceja-Hernandez, 25, of Marion County — exited the vehicle and fled on foot into the brush.

The third passenger, identified as 37-year-old Hasan Olinga Cross of Northwest Portland, remained in the vehicle and was detained by deputies, officials said.

Using thermal imaging and a helicopter, the Clackamas County Aviation Unit located Ceja-Hernandez hiding in some bushes near the car. The Clackamas County Sheriff's Office provided video of the pursuit (video has no sound):

Despite the use of the helicopter and thermal camera, K9 units, and the SWAT team, Dominguez could not be located, officials said.

Just before 5 a.m., however, a homeowner in the search area contacted deputies to inform them an unknown male was inside his home. Police units quickly surrounded the home and a standoff ensued.

Dominguez surrendered to deputies without further incident shortly before 6:45 a.m., officials said.

Photo Courtesy: Clackamas County Sheriff's Office