A man has been arrested in Oregon after authorities discovered him living for an extended period in a meticulously outfitted crawl space beneath a condominium complex. Beniamin Bucur, 40, was found in the hidden dwelling near Happy Valley, a community southeast of Portland, equipped with essential living amenities and powered by the building’s electricity. The discovery followed a witness report of suspicious activity and complaints from residents about strange noises emanating from the concealed area, prompting a detailed investigation.
The Suspicious Circumstance That Led to Discovery
The unsettling situation came to light on the evening of Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Deputies from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a condominium complex following a report of suspicious circumstances around 11 p.m.. A vigilant witness observed an individual, later identified as Beniamin Bucur, parking a vehicle and proceeding towards the rear of one of the buildings. This individual, not recognized as a resident of the complex, then entered the crawl space. The witness noted that the crawl space door was ajar, with light visible from within, before it was subsequently closed. Adding to the unease, residents had previously reported hearing “strange noises” originating from the crawl space, prompting further concern. Upon their arrival, deputies observed that the crawl space door was damaged and appeared to have been recently locked, with an extension cord visibly running through a vent, indicating an unauthorized connection to the building’s power supply. Efforts to open the door using keys provided by the owner were unsuccessful, necessitating a forced entry by law enforcement.
An Elaborate Hidden Residence
Once inside the crawl space, deputies uncovered a surprisingly sophisticated setup that indicated Bucur had been residing there for a significant, extended period. The area had been significantly modified to function as a makeshift living space. Authorities observed a bed, string lights, chargers, televisions, and other electronic devices, all drawing power from the condominium complex’s electrical system. Investigators also discovered a pipe containing white residue, which subsequently tested positive for methamphetamine, highlighting a concerning element to Bucur’s clandestine occupation. The extensive nature of the modifications suggested a deliberate and prolonged effort to create a functional living environment out of the hidden space. Deputies estimate Bucur had been living there for an extended period.
Legal Repercussions and Bail Set
Following his discovery and arrest within the crawl space, Beniamin Bucur, 40, was taken into custody by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. He faces serious charges including first-degree burglary and unlawful possession of methamphetamine. During a preliminary hearing held shortly after his arrest, a judge set Bucur’s bail at $75,000. Bucur, who is from Forest Grove, Oregon, was booked into the Clackamas County Jail. While some reports indicate prior criminal history, including convictions for assault, theft, resisting arrest, and burglary in previous years, this incident adds to his legal entanglements. His court dates are pending as the investigation continues.
Broader Implications for Residential Security
The incident in Oregon raises questions about security and unauthorized occupancy within residential complexes. Residents typically expect to be able to enjoy their homes and shared community spaces without the intrusion of unknown individuals establishing hidden residences. The ability of Bucur to live undetected for an extended period, modifying a crawl space and tapping into building utilities, underscores potential vulnerabilities in building security and oversight that law enforcement will explore. Authorities are continuing to gather information and are urging anyone with further details regarding this case to come forward. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity they may observe in their neighborhoods, contributing to community news and safety.
