PORTLAND, Ore. — A couple from Gresham, Carlos and Jessica Martin, have been charged in connection with a string of armed robberies that targeted 11 restaurants, bars, and lottery delis in the Portland area. Over the course of less than three weeks, the couple allegedly stole over $8,500 in cash while terrorizing employees at various locations.
The robbery spree began on October 11, when the Martins allegedly held up the Daily Double Inn in Northeast Portland. Workers reported that two masked men with guns demanded money, pointing weapons at employees and stealing cash. Surveillance footage from the scene showed a woman, later identified as Jessica Martin, driving the getaway car. Similar robberies occurred over the next two weeks, including at Pulperia La Catrachita, Dotty’s, and Epic Sports Bar.
In one robbery, at Spot #7 karaoke bar, the suspect threatened a worker’s life, demanding she open a register while pointing a gun at her. The robbers were reportedly quick and violent, often leaving within minutes with stolen cash.
On November 1, during a traffic stop, Carlos Martin attempted to flee but crashed his car into a ditch. He and Jessica Martin attempted to run, but Jessica surrendered, and Carlos was apprehended after hiding in a barn. Both have been charged with 11 counts of first-degree robbery, 22 counts of second-degree robbery, and multiple other charges, including unlawful use of a weapon and fleeing police.
Jessica Martin later admitted in an interview that she and Carlos began dating months prior and that he had recently purchased a handgun used in the robberies. Surveillance footage and evidence from Jessica’s car linked the couple to the crimes.
A third suspect, Charles Baham Jr., was arrested earlier in October for his involvement in similar robberies, both with and without the Martins. The investigation into the robberies is ongoing.
Both Carlos and Jessica Martin pleaded not guilty to the charges in court and remain in custody.
