Columbia County, OR — A 14-year-old Oregon boy accused of plotting a mass attack at a Washington shopping mall has been sentenced to probation after admitting he made a false threat, bringing a high-profile case to a negotiated conclusion.
Teen Admits False Threat, Avoids More Serious Charges
Beau Michael Carr, of Clatskanie, acknowledged first-degree disorderly conduct after admitting he falsely claimed plans of a catastrophic attack. He also admitted to unlawful possession of a firearm related to images he shared in a private Snapchat group.
The case was resolved in Columbia County Juvenile Court, where prosecutors and defense attorneys reached a heavily negotiated agreement.
Initial Allegations Involved Mass Violence Plot
Authorities had previously accused Carr of planning a bombing and mass shooting at the Three Rivers Valley Mall in Kelso, Washington. According to investigators, he allegedly posted online under the username “Zodiac99,” outlining a plan that included using a chlorine bomb to force people out of a movie theater before opening fire.
He was initially charged with multiple serious offenses, including attempted murder and assault, weapons violations, and evidence tampering.
Court Findings and Polygraph Evidence
However, the case shifted significantly after a judge determined that prosecutors failed to show Carr had taken any “substantial step” toward carrying out the alleged attack.
A polygraph test later supported the defense’s claim that Carr never intended to act on the plan. During questioning, he consistently denied any intention to carry out violence.
His attorney argued the teen felt pressured within an online group and feared consequences if he attempted to disengage.
Background and Contributing Factors
Defense attorneys said Carr had experienced bullying and isolation after relocating with his family to Clatskanie. Following an earlier incident involving photos of firearms—which belonged to his parents—he was removed from school and later turned to online communities.
Since then, Carr has been attending school remotely, participating in therapy, and engaging in community and educational activities, including anti-extremism outreach efforts.
Strict Probation Conditions Imposed
As part of his sentence, the judge imposed several restrictions, including:
- Remaining at home under parental supervision
- No unsupervised internet access
- No access to weapons or vehicle keys without supervision
- Staying at least 500 feet away from any mall, including the Three Rivers Valley Mall
- Avoiding contact with minors involved in drugs or alcohol
The court also ordered that his home remain free of all weapons.
Focus on Rehabilitation
Judge Nickolas Brajcich noted the seriousness of the case but acknowledged the teen’s progress since his arrest. He encouraged Carr to continue building positive habits and emphasized that his future would be shaped by how he moves forward.
Case Highlights Early Intervention
Prosecutors described the situation as serious but intercepted early, allowing for intervention through treatment rather than long-term incarceration.
The length of Carr’s probation will be determined by the county’s juvenile department as he continues under court supervision.
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