Man Arrested For Pointing Replica Gun At People Downtown: Police

PORTLAND, OR — A man who was seen pointing a handgun at drivers and pedestrians at the intersection of West Burnside Street and Southwest Park Avenue was arrested early Thursday. After his arrest, police learned the gun in question was actually just a replica Sig Sauer.

Justin Andrew Lafitt, 29, was taken to Multnomah County Jail and charged with disorderly conduct and menacing. This is Lafitt's tenth disorderly conduct arrest in 10 months. All previous charges, however, have been dropped without conviction.

Lafitt's arrest Thursday came after Portland police officers from the Bureau's Central Precinct were dispatched on the report of someone pointing a gun at people just before 12:30 a.m. June 21.

By the time officers arrived in the area, Lafitt had left. The ensuing search located Lafitt just a block south, near Southwest Ankeny Street and Southwest Park Avenue. He was reportedly still holding the gun in his hand.

A brief standoff occurred because Lafitt did not immediately respond to police commands that he put the weapon down, authorities said.

Eventually Lafitt dropped the gun, which turned out to be fake, and he was arrested without further incident.

Investigators reportedly have reason to believe Lafitt has been involved in other incidents downtown. Anyone with information that can assist the investigation into Lafitt's activities is encouraged to call the Portland Police Bureau non-emergency line at 503-823-3333.

Images via Portland Police Bureau