Detectives with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 48-year-old man accused of stealing brass plates from TriMet MAX platforms, according to a March 30 announcement.
The case is significant due to its impact on public safety and transit operations. The thefts reportedly created hazards for riders and exposed sensitive equipment to potential damage.
Investigators say that between March 17 and March 19, someone unscrewed and stole several large brass plates from MAX stations along North Interstate Avenue. Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell said, “Today’s announcement reflects the coordination that defines our partnerships with TriMet and the district attorney’s office to enhance public safety in our community. Across our entire transit system, the deputies and officers assigned to Transit Police represent a team of dedicated public servants who are making a genuine difference and helping TriMet riders move confidently and safely.”
Andrew Wilson, Chief Safety and Security Officer for TriMet, said, “This case illustrates the strength of our multi-agency approach to law enforcement, with partners working together to address public safety across our transit system. Theft and vandalism have real impacts. Missing plates leave uneven surfaces or openings where people could stumble or fall, especially in crowded or low-light conditions, and they expose sensitive equipment to damage. We’re grateful for the Transit Police and fellow law enforcement officers who worked quickly to stop these thefts and recover stolen property.”
After learning about the alleged thefts, investigators reviewed security footage and collaborated with other agencies. A Port of Portland Police Department officer identified Benjamin Mark Honl as a suspect. Transit Police arrested Honl on March 25 in Beaverton after finding evidence including a stolen brass plate under his vehicle seat cushion.
Honl was booked into jail on two counts of first-degree theft, one count of attempted first-degree theft, and one count of first-degree criminal mischief. Authorities note that charges are only allegations at this stage.
The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office leads the multi-agency TriMet Transit Police Division which patrols trains, buses, platforms, stations across multiple counties.