Incident Overview
A man held at the Clackamas County Jail has been accused of murdering his cellmate during an assault inside the facility earlier this month. According to the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Sapastian Year, 23, of Renton, Washington, is now facing a first-degree murder charge following the death of 26-year-old Reece Warren Richeson of Cedar Hills, Oregon.
The incident occurred on October 18, when a jail deputy discovered Year allegedly attacking Richeson while collecting meal trays from cells.
Discovery and Response
Deputies immediately intervened, pulling Richeson out of the cell. The sheriff’s office said he was found unconscious and unresponsive at the scene. Medical staff began life-saving efforts before he was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite medical treatment, Richeson died three days later from his injuries.
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Following the initial report, Year was charged with assault, but after Richeson’s death, the charge was upgraded to felony first-degree murder.
Background of the Suspect
Court documents reveal that Year had been booked into the Clackamas County Jail on September 26, several weeks prior to the assault. His earlier charges included criminal mischief and violations of a stalking protection order.
Officials have not yet released information about the motive or details surrounding the attack. Year is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on Tuesday, where prosecutors are expected to present the new murder charge.
Ongoing Investigation and Jail Review
The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an internal investigation is underway to determine the circumstances leading to Richeson’s death. The review will include examining jail procedures, housing assignments, and supervision protocols to ensure compliance with safety standards.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office said that both the criminal investigation into the homicide and a policy review of jail operations are being conducted simultaneously. Officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining the safety of inmates and staff.
Community and Legal Follow-Up
The sheriff’s office has notified Richeson’s family and expressed condolences for their loss. Jail officials have also pledged full transparency as the investigation continues.
Meanwhile, prosecutors in Clackamas County are working with investigators to determine whether additional evidence could lead to further charges.
If convicted of first-degree murder, Year faces a potential life sentence under Oregon law.
Next Steps
Year remains in custody at the Clackamas County Jail pending his next court appearance. Officials have not disclosed whether he has been moved to a separate unit following the incident.
The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office continues to gather witness statements, review surveillance footage, and evaluate response times to the assault. Updates are expected after the arraignment and completion of the internal review.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and court proceedings.
