An ongoing effort to address drug distribution in various areas in Central Precinct’s Neighborhood Response Team, which includes the Bike Squad, has led to arrests and the seizure of drugs and money. The latest effort has focused on areas that have seen an increase in drug transactions and related livability concerns such as drug-related refuse.
On the evening of Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Central Precinct’s Neighborhood Response Team conducted a Drug Interdiction Mission in the areas of Goose Hollow, Old Town, inner southeast and the South Park Blocks. In addition, the mission also focused on the area of Northwest Johnson and Kearney, from 14th to 16th Avenues.
The mission resulted in:
- 4 Separate Warrant Arrests
- 2 Separate Cite In Lieu Warrant Arrests
- 1 Arrest for PCS/DCS Fentanyl and Meth Arrest (Federal Charges)
- 2 Deflections
- 3 Traffic Cites
Police seized:
- 176.6 grams of meth
- 12.8 grams of fentanyl
- $710.10
This is not a new effort. PPB has been focused on illicit drug markets area for months and has conducted multiple missions that include extra resources.
The challenges in this area stem from broader systemic issues, including insufficient addiction services, an oversupply of fentanyl linked to international trafficking organizations, and the displacement effects from enforcement efforts in various neighborhoods.
Here are some of the efforts underway to address concerns by PPB and our community:
1. Targeted Enforcement Missions: Weekly missions by our bike teams are disrupting distribution networks in this area.
2. Federal Prosecutions: As always, we continue to work with our federal partners to prosecute higher-level offenders involved in the drug trade, ensuring longer sentences and greater deterrence.
3. Pathway Center for Deflection: Since September 1, 2024, PPB has transported individuals who qualify for deflection to the Pathway Center, offering addiction services, supportive housing, and mental health care.
4. Increased enforcement of drug crimes since HB 4002 has been implemented.
These measures are part of a focused, multi-faceted approach to restore safety and livability to this area.
Source: Portland Police