HILLSBORO, Ore- On December 6, 2024, a Washington County jury found Billy Eugene Brown, age 64, guilty of robbery in the first degree, felon in possession of a firearm, identity theft, and theft in the second degree. Senior Deputy District Attorney Andrew Freeman prosecuted this case before Judge Erik Buchér. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 20, 2024.

Mr. Brown has an extensive criminal history with more than 70 arrest cycles and multiple prison stints dating back to the early 1990s. On June 27, 2023, the defendant entered a Home Depot in Beaverton with two bags. He filled both bags with stolen merchandise and walked out of the store. Multiple loss prevention employees witnessed the theft and followed him from the store to recover the stolen items. A worker attempted to grab one of the bags from the defendant, but a handgun fell from the bag during the struggle. The employee disengaged and warned others of the weapon. The defendant then held the firearm as he warned employees to get away from him. He fled the area with the stolen merchandise. 

Beaverton police located the defendant nearby at a Target store and arrested him. He had loose ammunition in his pocket and a debit card stolen in a Portland car prowl in his wallet. A police K9 then located a loaded 9mm handgun along with a bag used in the robbery hidden under some bushes between the stores. 

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office commends the work of Beaverton police in apprehending the suspect and securing the missing firearm. 

This office is dedicated to protecting area businesses from theft and crime. District Attorney Kevin Barton recently launched an anti-shoplifting campaign and has been distributing warning signs for companies to display. Visit our website to learn more about this effort and to request a free sign.