MultCo judge releases man accused of kidnapping and sexually abusing disabled woman

PORTLAND, Ore. — Multnomah County court records show the man accused of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a developmentally delayed woman last week was released just days after his arrest.

Robert Joseph Bryant, 68, was arrested on September 16 and charged with kidnapping, second- and third-degree sexual abuse, attempted assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

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The police state of Bryant kidnapped a woman living in a residential home for vulnerable adults. The victim, a developmentally delayed 22-year-old woman with the functioning level of a 5-year-old child, was later sexually abused by her abductor.

Records confirm that Bryant was sent to prison on those charges. A state memorandum shows that Bryant's legal team requested conditional release, but the state and county denied it on the grounds that he was accused of a violent crime.

However, on Wednesday, a concerned parent contacted KATU, claiming Bryant had been released and was living near children.

KATU confirmed through court records that Bryant was released from prison on September 24.

In a motion filed by Bryant's attorney, he claims there is no evidence that Bryant would pose a risk of physical or sexual harm to the victim while on conditional release. The attorney also says Bryant's health issues, such as impaired vision and mobility and balance problems, should give him additional grounds for release.

Multnomah County District Court Judge Melvin Oden-Orr granted Bryant release from custody on the conditions that he have no contact with the specific victim, stay away from her residence, report to PRS and shop at a specific grocery store at 14700 SE Division St.

Bryant's next court date is September 25.