Portland, OR – Six individuals have been charged as a result of a successful human trafficking mission conducted by the Portland Police Bureau’s (PPB) Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) along 82nd Avenue. The operation, which took place last week in collaboration with other agencies, aimed to proactively combat human trafficking in the area.
PPB has reported that the following individuals were either arrested or cited for offenses related to commercial sexual solicitation and unlawful prostitution procurement activities:
– Jose Cruz Garcia, 34, from Hillsboro, OR
– MD Dim, 43 (location undisclosed)
– Khalil Isaiev, 20, from Portland, OR
– Jauvon McKenith, 32, from Portland, OR (also cited for possession of a loaded firearm in public)
– Felix Pennington IV, 27, from Los Angeles, CA
– Joshua Poole, 33, from Portland, OR
During the mission, law enforcement seized one handgun, towed two vehicles, and made contact with five providers (or victims) of human trafficking. The PPB provided assistance, resources, and advocacy efforts to these individuals. Additionally, several potential buyers and providers were identified in the area.
In a release, PPB stated the HTU continues to receive numerous complaints from community members, organizations, and business partners regarding the prevalent illegal activities along 82nd Avenue. These cases handled by the HTU are complex, often involving barriers such as repeated traumatic exposures, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation.
Law enforcement stated that victims are often hesitant to come forward, make reports, or engage in the criminal justice process. To address these challenges, the HTU, in collaboration with the PPB Victim Services Unit advocates and community-based partnerships, provides trauma-informed and victim-centered services.
In response to the ongoing issue of human trafficking, PPB urges anyone who suspects labor or sex trafficking to immediately call 911 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Tips can also be reported to [email protected].
Sergeant Kevin Allen from PPB emphasized the vital role of the victim services unit in addressing human trafficking. He highlighted that the focus of enforcement is on traffickers and buyers, while advocacy and providing alternatives are prioritized for providers. Allen explained that connections established during missions may not lead to immediate action but serve as a starting point for future contact and communication.
He further emphasized the dedication of officers in addressing this issue in the area and issued a stern message to those considering engaging in such activities: “It’s really important for people who are considering engaging in this type of activity to know that the police could be on the other end of the line.”
