Sheriff Says That They Arrested Man Who Touched Teen On Bus

PORTLAND, OR — The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office says that they've arrested the man they believe inappropriately touched a 15-year-old girl on a TriMet bus last week. They say that 33-year-old Jose Thomas Chanmay is charged with sex abuse and harassment.

Deputies say that on December 15, Chanmay was riding the Line 72 bus along NE 82nd Avenue when the incident happened.

The teen, who was not physically harmed, reported the incident after Chanmay got off the bus at the stop at NE Killingsworth and Cully.

On Friday, Chanmay was back on the bus when the driver recognized him from a publicity effort by the sheriff's office transit division. The driver notified police and arrested Chanmay by Glisan Street and Northeast 82nd Avenue.

Detectives quickly discovered that Chanmay is on parole and was being sought on a warrant related to a previous sex abuse incident.

If anyone has information on Chanmay or any other incident – officials believe that there are other victims – they are asked to contact the Transit Police Division by calling 503-962-7566, and reference MCSO Case #21-61855.