Targeted law enforcement operations in Portland last month led to a series of arrests in an area long known for sex trafficking activity. Over the course of several weeks in September 2025, officers conducted coordinated patrols along Northeast 82nd Avenue and Sandy Boulevard, resulting in 26 individuals being arrested or cited in connection with commercial sexual solicitation and related crimes.
Focused Efforts In Northeast Portland Lead To Dozens Of Arrests Tied To Sex Trafficking
The group of people arrested ranged widely in age, from teenagers to those nearing 60. Alongside the arrests, police impounded eight vehicles, recovered a firearm, and gathered new intelligence related to suspected traffickers and buyers operating in the area.
These operations weren’t random. They were launched in direct response to ongoing concerns from residents about persistent issues tied to sex trafficking in the area. The effort pulled together multiple local and federal agencies, from Portland Police and the FBI to county prosecutors and parole officers, all working toward a common goal: reducing trafficking and the harm it brings to the surrounding neighborhoods, and connecting victims of sex trafficking with the support they need to recover.
Support For Victims Is A Key Part Of The Strategy
Law enforcement wasn't the only presence during this investigation. Outreach advocates were able to make contact with many of those being trafficked or exploited. Over the course of the month, 18 individuals were approached by advocates and offered support services.
Safety Compass, one of the main organizations involved, provides confidential advocacy to people under the age of 25 who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation. Their approach is grounded in trust-building and survivor-informed care, with a focus on offering steady support rather than short-term fixes.
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Working alongside the Portland Police Bureau’s Victim Services Unit, Safety Compass helps survivors navigate their way out of exploitation with compassion and long-term resources. In cases like these, trauma and fear can make it difficult for survivors to step forward and ask for help, so advocates serve as a vital bridge between law enforcement and recovery.
As trafficking investigations continue in Portland, this collaborative approach is a critical piece of reducing exploitation and supporting those most affected by it.
You can see the list of people that were arrested or cited for prostitution procurement activities or commercial sexual solicitation in September 2025 in the official portland.gov press release.
- If you're being trafficked or know someone who is, you can call 911, or the non emergency Portland police line at 503-823-3333.
- You can also call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
- For the Safety Compass 24 hour survivor support line, call 971-235-0021, or visit the Safety Compass website.
