HILLSBORO, Ore. (KPTV) — A Washington County jury has convicted a Portland man who attempted to smuggle a loaded handgun into jail by hiding it in his underwear, according to court officials.
Conviction and Charges
On November 6, 2025, Jerone Enrico Cuie was found guilty of possession of a weapon by an inmate, felon in possession of a firearm, and supplying contraband. The verdict followed an investigation that began when Cuie was arrested during a routine traffic stop in Beaverton earlier this year.
Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest
According to court documents, on August 30, 2025, Beaverton police pulled Cuie over after noticing a fake registration tag on his vehicle. During the stop, officers discovered that his driver’s license was suspended and that he had an active warrant for violating probation linked to a prior felony conviction.
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Officers took Cuie into custody after he denied having any weapons. Police searched him before transport, but nothing was found at the time.
Gun Found During Jail Intake
While being driven to jail, Cuie reportedly asked the transporting officer whether he would have to undergo a strip search upon arrival — a question that later raised suspicion.
During the intake process at the Washington County Jail, deputies discovered a fully loaded handgun concealed in Cuie’s underwear, according to the sheriff’s office. Authorities confirmed the weapon was operational and ready to fire, posing a serious security risk to staff and inmates.
Prior Convictions and Legal Background
Court records show that Cuie is a convicted felon, previously charged in a Multnomah County attempted murder case that also involved a firearm. Due to that prior conviction, he was legally prohibited from possessing any gun. His attempt to bring a loaded weapon into a correctional facility led to additional felony charges.
Public and Law Enforcement Reaction
Officials commended the deputies at the jail for their diligence during the intake screening, saying their actions prevented what could have been a dangerous situation. The Washington County District Attorney’s Office emphasized that Cuie’s case demonstrates the importance of thorough searches and the risks posed by individuals attempting to smuggle weapons into secure facilities.
“This could have resulted in a tragedy inside the jail,” one investigator noted, highlighting how concealed weapons threaten the safety of both law enforcement personnel and inmates.
Sentencing Date Set
Jerone Enrico Cuie is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2025. He remains in custody while awaiting the court’s decision on his punishment.
If convicted on all counts, he faces several years in state prison, given his prior criminal record and the seriousness of the offenses.
