Portland Police have made several arrests in a major operation targeting human trafficking in Northeast Portland, shedding light on a crime that often thrives in the shadows.
The Portland Police Bureau (PPB), working with its Human Trafficking Unit and a network of law enforcement and victim support agencies, led the effort to disrupt trafficking activities and support survivors.
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The coordinated operation involved units from East and North Precinct Priority Projects, Central Precinct, the Detective Division, Special Resources Division, and the Victim Services Unit. External partners included the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, the District Attorney’s Office, and Multnomah County Parole & Probation.
The crackdown resulted in multiple arrests on charges that included Commercial Sexual Solicitation, forgery, and firearm violations. Among those arrested were 54-year-old Petros Ghebremedhin and 29-year-old Raul Alarcon Gonzalez, who both faced additional charges beyond solicitation.
Police also towed six vehicles and made contact with sixteen individuals identified as providers, connecting them to essential services and support.
One of the key partners in these efforts was Safety Compass, a nonprofit that advocates for survivors of commercial sexual exploitation, particularly those under 25.
The PPB emphasized the complex challenges survivors face, including repeated trauma, emotional ties to traffickers, and fear of retaliation. Despite these barriers, officers continue to deliver victim-centered, trauma-informed care focused on both justice and healing.
Through these ongoing missions, Portland Police reaffirm their commitment to dismantling trafficking networks while offering genuine pathways to recovery for those impacted.
