On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, PPB conducted proactive anti-trafficking initiatives via directed patrol along Southeast 82nd Avenue.
Nine men were arrested. One man was also charged for illegal possession of a gun and another man had a warrant.
During the mission, there were other potential buyers identified, four vehicles towed, and six providers contacted. All providers were offered services and ongoing advocacy assistance. One female was rescued after she was identified as missing from California. PPB’s Victim Services Unit worked diligently to arrange transportation to safely reunify her with concerned family.
HTU had assistance from East, North, and Central Precincts, Special Resources Division, Victim Services Unit, Multnomah County Probation and Parole, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, and community-based advocacy groups.
PPB and HTU continue to receive several livability complaints from community members, organizations, and business partners regarding rampant illegal activity along this stretch of 82nd Avenue. HTU cases are complex, with several identified barriers such as repeated traumatic exposures, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation. The victims in these cases are often reluctant to come forward, make a report, and/or continue through the criminal justice process. HTU continues to offer trauma-informed, victim-centered services, in conjunction with PPB Victim Services Unit advocates and community-based partnerships.
If you or someone you know is being labor or sex trafficked, please call 911 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or report tips to humantrafficking@police.portlandoregon.gov.
Source: Portland Police Bureau