An Adult in Custody at the Washington County Jail Assaulted Another Adult in Custody

On Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at approximately 7:00 a.m., two Washington County Sheriff’s Office jail deputies were assisting with breakfast service in a Washington County Jail housing unit. Multiple adults in custody were outside of their jail cells returning meal trays or assisting the deputies.

39-year-old Joshua Nealy of Forest Grove returned his meal tray and asked permission to heat up a cup of water in a microwave, which is a frequent and ordinary request. After several minutes, Nealy was walking back towards the deputy's desk when he threw the cup of hot water at another adult in custody who was returning their meal tray.

Deputies immediately responded and were able to restrain Nealy without incident. Additional deputies and jail medical staff responded and provided medical care to the injured victim.

The victim suffered 2nd degree burns to his face, neck, and chest and had to be evaluated and treated at a local hospital. Once treated, they were returned to the Washington County Jail and are receiving continued care from jail medical staff.

On July 19, 2023, a Washington County Grand Jury convened and indicted Nealy on the charge of assault in the first degree and unlawful use of a weapon.

The unprovoked attack was captured on a jail surveillance camera. The camera footage of the attack is being released today and can be viewed here.