Defendant in Anti-Gay Stabbing Runs Naked Through Traffic
Michael Cox had been charged with a hate crime for allegedly stabbing a patron outside a gay bar in June.
A 38-year-old Portland resident previously accused of stabbing a man while yelling anti-gay slurs was arrested by police for allegedly running naked through traffic.
According to court documents, Michael Cox first landed in prison in June for allegedly stabbing a man in his chest and left hand outside a popular gay bar in Portland’s Old Town district.
The victim told police he had just exited the Silverado when Cox became upset that the victim had looked in his direction. Witnesses claimed they heard Cox yell “I’m going to kill you and finish you off!” as well as hurling anti-gay slurs at the alleged victim, according to Portland-based ABC affiliate KATU.
Cox pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, which included assault, with a bias enhancement, and unlawful use of a weapon.
Judge Michael Greenlick ordered Cox released from prison on August 8 on the condition that he stay at the Bybee Lakes Hope Center, a homeless shelter and support center in North Portland, and intentionally remain away from the victim and the area around the Silverado Bar.
But Cox was reportedly expelled from Bybee Lakes due to his behavior, according to court documents.
He went to Emanuel Hospital, only to be expelled a second time.
Police said they later found him running naked through traffic on the Broadway Bridge.
Cox was arrested again but refused to show up for court the following day. Another hearing was scheduled for Aug. 24, but it is unclear how that was resolved.
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