A trans-identifying homeless man in Portland has been released on zero bail.
The Post Millennial reports that this has happened even though he is accused of kidnapping a special needs child. Booking reports state that the judge released the man on no bond.
Matthew Clayton Stark, 42, allegedly approached a special needs child while riding the Yellow Line MAX train near the Rose Quarter Transit Center in January 2022. This is based on court reports obtained by KATU.
That was the biggest mistake you ever made, Stark allegedly told the boy before threatening him with violence. Based on the cases affidavit, Stark walked the boy to a house in North Portland and told him to knock on the door and say: Micha was here to see his son.
The homeowner said they were unfamiliar with the name. Stark walked away, and the boy immediately called the authorities for assistance.
The Post Millennial reports that police could not track down Stark until February 2022. Outlets said that a transit deputy recognized Stark from a police flyer and made the arrest.
Stark was informed that he was being accused of charges of kidnapping, coercion, and interfering with public transportation on February 10, 2022. At an April 2022 hearing, the judge dropped Starks bail to zero.
Stark self-identifies as a woman named Tru. Stark reportedly worked for Street Roots, a Portland-based newspaper that hires homeless people to provide them with an income. He was also profiled by the outlet in 2021. Stark said during his profile that he lives by one quote: Whatever you love, do it in such a way that inspires others to follow behind you boldly. Stark said, Im a 40-year-old trans female, and Im happy that way. Its almost a trepidatious feeling to me how comfortable I am with myself. I spent most of my life being uncomfortable, and its an amazing feeling to be my authentic self.
Stark has also made it clear that he is a supporter of the trans movement and has posted about it in the past on Facebook.
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