Jose Manuel Escobar De Loera Guilty In Robbery Spree Targeting Asian-Owned Businesses (Photo) - 06/16/26

HILLSBORO, Oregon- On May 7, 2026, Washington County Circuit Court Judge Janelle Wipper found Jose Manuel Escobar De Loera guilty of robbery in the first degree (two counts), robbery in the second degree (two counts), theft in the first degree (two counts), and theft in the second degree in a bench trial. Judge Wipper later sentenced the defendant to 135 months in prison. Deputy District Attorneys Carlos Catibayan and Nolan Hill prosecuted this case.
 

The defendant was part of a group that committed armed robberies of Asian-owned massage businesses in Tigard and Tualatin. On December 13, 2025, the defendant carried out coordinated and premeditated robberies at two Tigard massage businesses. After searching and mapping the businesses, he gained entry by posing as a customer. His accomplices then entered with masks and weapons and threatened employees before the defendant and his accomplices stole cash and phones.
 

On December 16, 2025, the defendant and his accomplices carried out a similar crime, but employees were able to flee the scene and wave down a passing vehicle for help. The vehicle’s driver was able to apprehend the defendant. The defendant was found holding the business’s security box and was observed discarding stolen cash and stolen phones in a creek.
 

Law enforcement obtained the defendant’s phone records to show that the defendant searched and traveled to all three locations. Phone records, surveillance footage, and victim testimony were used to identify the defendant.
 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of Tualatin and Tigard police and the courage of the victims.

The defendant will be transferred to the Oregon Department of Corrections to serve his sentence.

Washington County DA's Office Partners With New Nonprofit Provider To Support Domestic Violence Victims (Photo) - 06/04/26

HILLSBORO, Ore- The Washington County District Attorney’s Office is partnering with Bridging Horizons, a local nonprofit community organization, to better support victims of domestic violence.
 

Bridging Horizons was launched in 2023 to help fill gaps in services available for victims of domestic violence. The organization supports survivors of domestic violence by providing financial support throughout the legal process. They have helped cover expenses including rent, vehicle fuel, utilities, groceries, phone bills, moving costs, child care, and other unforeseen costs. The organization has distributed more than $5,000 to 36 victims and their family members.
 

Bridging Horizons President Sangeeta Khanna works as a Victim Services Specialist in the Washington County District Attorney’s Office. Khanna saw the need to support victims and collaborated with a team of professionals to launch the organization.
 

"We recognized that survivors often face urgent requirements—such as rent, utility bills, vehicle-related payments, safety equipment, and unexpected expenses—that cannot be resolved quickly enough, said Khanna. “Our mission is to offer immediate, practical support during this critical time, allowing survivors to concentrate on rebuilding their lives and working towards greater stability and independence."
 

Bridging Horizons is also working with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to host supply closets open to domestic violence survivors. Stocked with toiletries, diapers, clothing, food, and more, these closets serve as a vital resource for crime victims.
 

“This assistance made a meaningful difference in my stability during a critical time. As someone rebuilding after domestic violence, having support with my car payment helps me maintain reliable transportation for appointments, daily responsibilities, and my continued search for employment,” said a recipient of funding who asked to remain anonymous. “Reducing this financial pressure allows me to stay focused on moving forward and building long-term stability for myself and my family.”
 

Bridging Horizons relies on the generosity of donors to support crime victims. Visit their website to learn more about supporting this organization.