A violent carjacking attempt in Clackamas County, Oregon, has reignited debate over sanctuary state policies after an illegal immigrant allegedly stabbed an 86-year-old man. The suspect, 31-year-old Jesus Ascencio-Molina, had previously been deported and has an extensive criminal record in Oregon.

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the December 27 incident at a Fred Meyer grocery store, where the victim was reportedly attacked while loading groceries into his car. Witnesses described the suspect fleeing the scene after his failed carjacking attempt, leaving the victim with multiple stab wounds.

Ngo investigates: An illegal Mexican with a violent history & prior deportation is taking advantage of Oregon's sanctuary laws. Previously a suspect in an attempted murder, he was just arrested over the stabbing of an 86-year-old in an attempted carjacking.https://t.co/Hzoh2InBvs

— Andy Ngo 🏳️‍🌈 (@MrAndyNgo) January 5, 2025

Law enforcement located and arrested Ascencio-Molina at a nearby apartment complex. He now faces multiple charges, including second-degree attempted murder, first-degree robbery and unlawful use of a weapon. Authorities confirmed Ascencio-Molina’s illegal status and previous deportation in 2013.

Woman claims Americans are being run out of apartments to make room for Venezualan migrants in Eugene, Oregon. Says she doesn’t feel safe there anymore and is hoping to get out of the city. pic.twitter.com/hrw2OEf9EX

— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) September 12, 2024

Critics argue that Oregon’s sanctuary policies, which restrict local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration officials, contributed to the incident. A spokesperson for the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged these limitations, explaining that state law prohibits inquiries into a suspect’s immigration status or place of birth.

Ascencio-Molina has a history of violent offenses. In 2018, he was arrested for attempted murder involving a nail gun, but the case was dismissed. A 2016 theft charge was also dropped. Critics of sanctuary laws suggest that these policies allow repeat offenders to continue posing risks to public safety.

The elderly victim, who was hospitalized but survived the attack, told deputies he did not know the suspect. Authorities provided lifesaving care at the scene before transporting him to a local hospital.

Ascencio-Molina remains in custody without bail at the Clackamas County Jail. Federal immigration authorities have not confirmed any involvement in the case.