In an extensive operation combatting prostitution-related offenses in Portland, Oregon, police disclosed on Thursday that they had rescued at least six underage girls last month.
Law enforcement officials from the Portland Police Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) and the East Precinct reported that the girls, aged between 13 and 17, were found following initiatives that commenced on April 15.
Southeast Portland’s 82nd Avenue corridor has long struggled with issues of sex trafficking and prostitution, but the recent operation uncovered what authorities described as an “alarming number” of victims, far exceeding usual figures.
“Though HTU members often rescue individuals from traffickers, encountering so many minors in such a short timeframe is rare,” officials remarked. “Whether this represents an emerging trend or is an isolated incident remains uncertain.”
On June 25, 2021, Portland Police were present at a crime scene. (Portland Police Bureau)
The rescued girls were provided with assistance from Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Victim Services and Safety Compass, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals under 25 who identify as survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) is also helping facilitate reunification with out-of-state parents or arranging placement into care.
Empty streets are seen in downtown Portland, Oregon, on April 22, 2020. (Moriah Ratner/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Authorities said human trafficking cases often involve victims who may be reluctant to report crimes or move forward through the criminal justice system due to factors such as trauma bonds, repeated exposure to abuse and fear of retaliation.
To help survivors recover, the HTU said it uses a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach when working with victims.
A Portland Police vehicle is parked near a recreational area. (Portland Police Department)
Investigators are continuing to build cases against the alleged traffickers and sex buyers and have not released any names.
Police added that it considers identifying and protecting trafficking victims a top priority, emphasizing proactive investigations and close coordination with partners such as the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA) to hold offenders accountable.
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