Portland Man Charged with Extortion and Bias Crime

Mason Thomas Clark, 19, of Portland, is facing criminal charges after allegedly posing as an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent and attempting to extort money from a 7-Eleven clerk. The incident took place on March 29th at a 7-Eleven located at 9111 Southeast Division Street.

Details of the Extortion Attempt

According to court documents, Clark and another man entered the store. Clark approached the register and identified himself as being with Immigration and Customs. He then allegedly told the clerk, “You have two options: Give me money or I will come after your family.”

Threats and Fear

When the employee stated he did not have any money, Clark reportedly threatened to shoot him if he didn’t comply. The clerk, who is of Asian descent and an immigrant, stated he feared for his safety and the safety of his family. He stressed he had no money to give, and Clark and the other man subsequently left the store.

Arrest and Charges

Police arrested Clark shortly after the incident. He was arraigned on Monday on charges of attempted theft by extortion and a second-degree bias crime. Clark was released on his own recognizance with the conditions that he stay away from 7-Eleven stores and appear in court on April 27th.

Suspect's Account

During police questioning, Clark claimed a person named “Tim” instructed him to pose as an ICE agent and provided him with a fake gun.

Prior Legal Issues

Court records indicate Clark was previously sentenced to 18 months of probation in Washington County in 2025 after pleading guilty to initiating a false report.

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