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Christopher Bookhart Charged with robbing Northeast Portland McDonalds

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Christopher Lamont Bookhart, a 64-year-old man with several known aliases, faces multiple charges after he allegedly robbed a Northeast Portland McDonald’s and assaulted medical staff during his subsequent arrest. The incident, which unfolded on a Monday in the 8000 block of Northeast Martin Luther King Boulevard, shifted from a botched robbery to a series of violent outbursts involving first responders and hospital personnel.

A botched robbery and a trail of aliases

Court documents describe a scene where Bookhart entered the McDonald’s and demanded money from the register. According to the restaurant manager and employees, the atmosphere turned menacing when they heard a metallic sound emanating from Bookhart’s jacket. Despite the threats, Bookhart was unable to secure the funds because the register remained locked.

The legal complexity of the suspect’s identity became apparent during the processing of the case. Prosecutors and jail records reveal an array of aliases used by Bookhart, suggesting an effort to obscure his identity over the years. These names include:

  • William Clark
  • Christopher Rockwell
  • Eddie Bernard Collins
  • Kris Burkhart
  • Alexander Rockwell
  • Willy Huntington
  • Richard Wells
  • Christopher Alexander
  • Christopher Lamont Williams

Violence against first responders

The situation escalated after the robbery attempt failed. Bookhart reported experiencing chest pain, prompting the arrival of paramedics. However, the medical emergency did not result in a cooperative patient. Court documents state that Bookhart became combative and spit in the face of a paramedic.

The aggression continued upon his arrival at the hospital. While under medical care, Bookhart allegedly attempted to bite a nurse and directed a homophobic slur at the healthcare provider. These actions transformed a robbery charge into a broader set of crimes targeting the very people tasked with his care.

A history of recidivism and legal stakes

Bookhart is no stranger to the justice system. Jail records indicate he has at least four prior convictions. Most notably, he has two separate robbery convictions dating back to 2003 and 2008.

The current charges are severe. Bookhart was arraigned on Tuesday on the following counts:

  • Second-degree robbery
  • Second-degree bias crime (stemming from the slurs used at the hospital)
  • Aggravated harassment
  • Fourth-degree assault

Bookhart’s bail has been set at $50,000. He remains in custody as the court prepares for his next appearance, scheduled for November 4.

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