GRESHAM, Ore. (KOIN) – The man shot and killed by Gresham police Tuesday morning had three outstanding warrants for his arrest and was considered a recruiter in a theft ring, KOIN 6 News has learned.
Bodhi Wilson Dean Phelps, 22, was shot and killed after police responded to reports of an “active” domestic violence situation near the intersection of 187th and Grant.
The first calls for help originated near the 800 block of SE 190th Avenue with reports that a woman was screaming for help and being forced into a vehicle against her will, according to police. Minutes later, witnesses reported seeing the woman screaming and “banging” from inside the car in the 18900 block of SE Grant Street, police said.
Gresham police said two of their officers located Phelps and confronted him. Phelps brandished 2 knives and police commanded him to “drop the knife,” officials said.
Phelps was in the roadway when he was shot, police said.
In Oct. 2014, Phelps was convicted of one count of ID theft. He was sentenced to probation and two days in jail.
In Feb. 2015, Phelps was convicted of attempting to unlawfully possess heroin. He received probation.
KOIN 6 News reported in 2013 that Phelps was considered a top lieutenant and was accused of being a recruiter in a theft ring that stole $140,000.
The use of force will be reviewed by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office.
The name of the officers involved were released Thursday. Officer Gavin Sasser has worked for the Gresham Police Department since 2008. Officer Kevin Carlson has been in law enforcement for more than 4 years but was hired by the Gresham department in 2015.