Portland police say efforts to combat sex trafficking in NE Portland intensify

The Portland Police Bureau announced an intensified campaign against sex trafficking in Northeast Portland, particularly targeting areas around Northeast 82nd Avenue and Northeast Sandy Boulevard. Over the past three months, the bureau conducted directed patrols in response to community complaints, which revealed significant nuisance activities related to sex trafficking. As a result, police arrested 30 individuals, aged 18 to 71, for commercial sexual solicitation and unlawful prostitution. The Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) collaborated with various precincts and the Detective Division, making significant strides in addressing these crimes. In addition to arrests, six vehicles were towed, and information was gathered on suspected buyers and traffickers.

The HTU partnered with the Victim Services Unit and Safety Compass, a non-profit organization, to provide advocacy services to survivors of commercial sexual exploitation. Approximately 25 service providers were contacted to offer assistance and resources to potential victims. The bureau encourages anyone with information about trafficking to report it to law enforcement at 911 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.