Man who filmed Portland police gets probation

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A man arrested after filming a Portland police precinct from a sports utility vehicle filled with weapons has been sentenced to three years on probation after pleading no contest to unlawful possession of a firearm.

Multnomah County court records show 39-year-old Eric Crowl signed the plea Friday.

Police arrested Crowl in August after he spent months watching and filming officers during shift changes at the East Precinct.

As part of the plea deal, Crowl agreed to no longer monitor officers and to only contact police for a legitimate purpose.

His attorney, Bryan Francesconi, said Monday that his client started filming officers because he observed police conduct he felt was inappropriate, and believes an engaged citizenry must defend against law enforcement overreach.