HILLSBORO, Ore. — A jury in Washington County has convicted David James Kozak on multiple charges, including second-degree attempted murder and arson, related to a brutal assault on his former girlfriend and the subsequent destruction of their apartment building.
On April 24, 2025, Judge Theodore Sims sentenced Kozak to 20 years and five months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution exceeding $719,000. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on February 22, 2023, in the Raleigh Hills neighborhood, where Kozak allegedly attacked the victim with a butcher knife, inflicting severe wounds to her neck, head, and shoulder.
The victim’s quick thinking led her to seek refuge in a neighbor’s apartment, where she recounted the harrowing attack before she lost consciousness. Neighbors responded promptly, dialing 911, leading to a swift response from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Upon arrival, deputies learned that Kozak had not only assaulted the victim but had also attempted to ignite the apartment. Despite their efforts, the fire reignited, ultimately consuming the building. The disaster displaced eight residents and sadly resulted in the deaths of three pet cats. Authorities found two lighters in Kozak’s possession at the time of his arrest.
In addition to his lengthy prison sentence, Kozak has been prohibited from contacting the victims and will face three years of supervised release following his incarceration. He is also banned from pet ownership for five years.
The investigation highlighted the alarming issues of domestic violence and arson, prompting community discussions about the need for increased awareness and prevention measures. Local advocates stress the importance of supporting victims and providing necessary resources, as they work diligently to address these persistent societal challenges.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the potential consequences of domestic violence, underscoring the dire need for intervention strategies and support systems to protect vulnerable individuals. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, efforts to foster a safer environment continue to unfold.