The Portland Police Bureau says its Human Trafficking Unit recently recovered six teenage girls believed to be victims of sex trafficking during enforcement operations along the city’s 82nd Avenue corridor.
According to police, the juveniles, ranging in age from 13 to 17, were recovered during missions and investigative activity conducted beginning April 15, 2026. Authorities described the number of juveniles identified within such a short period as unusually high.
Police said the girls were transported to East Precinct, where they were connected with advocacy and support services through the bureau’s Victim Services Unit and Safety Compass, a nonprofit organization that works with survivors of commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking under the age of 25.
The Portland Police Bureau said investigators also coordinated with the Oregon Department of Human Services to facilitate reunification with out-of-state family members or placement into DHS care when appropriate.
According to the bureau, detectives are continuing to investigate potential traffickers and individuals suspected of purchasing sex as part of ongoing criminal investigations.
While police said it is not uncommon for investigators to recover individuals allegedly being exploited through trafficking operations, officials noted that identifying six juveniles during such a short timeframe is unusual.
“It’s not clear whether this represents a new trend or an anomaly,” the bureau said in a statement.
The Human Trafficking Unit said its investigations often involve significant challenges, including trauma bonds between victims and traffickers, repeated exposure to abuse, and fears of retaliation that may make victims reluctant to participate in the criminal justice process.
Police said the bureau continues to use a trauma-informed and victim-centered approach while working alongside advocacy organizations and service providers.
Safety Compass, one of the bureau’s community partners, provides street outreach and advocacy services to young survivors of trafficking and exploitation throughout the Portland area.
The Portland Police Bureau described human trafficking as a persistent and harmful crime that disproportionately targets vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
“The Portland Police Bureau considers the identification and protection of trafficking victims a top priority,” the bureau stated. “Through specialized units like HTU and close collaboration
with partners, PPB is focused on proactive investigations, victim outreach, and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.”
Authorities encouraged anyone who suspects someone may be experiencing trafficking or exploitation to contact law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Tips can also be submitted to the Portland Police Bureau’s Human Trafficking Unit at [email protected]
