The Portland Police Bureau (PPB), in collaboration with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, apprehended 12 individuals in its latest sex trafficking crackdown. This latest operation marks the fourth of its kind jointly conducted by the two agencies.
The arrests transpired last Tuesday and involved individuals ranging in age from 24 to 59. Among those taken into custody were Robert David Larsen, Leoncio Duran-Alvez, Vincente Rodriguez-Baldera, and nine others. Thomas Salcido, 39, was cited but not detained. Charges spanned from prostitution to attempted prostitution offenses.
In a proactive move, during the sting operation, 22 women, presumably involved against their will, were approached by authorities with offers of services and aid. A hopeful sign, seven among them chose to avail the assistance presented to them.
But the operation wasn’t just about arrests. As part of their proactive measures, police conducted 21 traffic stops, which led to the confiscation of two firearms, further ensuring the safety of the community.
The sex trafficking bust in Portland comes on the heels of a surge in community complaints about rampant sex trafficking activities across Multnomah County. This intensified crackdown signals the agencies’ unwavering commitment to eradicating such heinous crimes from the region.
Victims of trafficking or those with knowledge about such activities, contact the Women’s Rights Group. We stand ready to aid in filing claims for compensation and ensure those responsible are held to account in court.
