Human Trafficking Mission Results in Arrests, Guns and Vehicles Seized (Photo)

November 19, 2024 12:03

During the last two months, Portland Police Bureau’s Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) continued their directed patrol efforts along NE 82nd Avenue and NE Sandy Boulevard in response to ongoing community complaints and observed nuisance/livability activity. HTU was assisted by East, North, and Central Precincts, Detectives Division, Special Resources Division, Victim Services Unit, Multnomah County Parole & Probation, Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, and Safety Compass.

The individuals were arrested or cited for ORS 167.008 Commercial Sexual Solicitation (CSS) and/or Portland City Code 14A.40.50 Unlawful Prostitution Procurement Activities (UPPA).

The following individuals were also contacted and arrested for additional and/or separate crimes:

Justin Boswell, 45, Vancouver, WA (Warrants)
Hector Cifuentes-Otzy, 22, Portland, OR (DWS Misdemeanor, CSS, UPPA, Detainer)
De'Angelo Clayton, 27, Portland, OR (Firearm related charge, CSS, UPPA, Detainer)
Jacob DeGroot, 36, Vancouver, WA (Firearm related charge, UPPA, Warrant)
Elliase Lanier-Foster, 23, Gresham, OR (Firearm related charge)
Marcelo Navarette-Isabel, 46, Tigard, OR (Warrant, CSS, UPPA)
Donnell Watson, 23, Gresham, OR (Interfering with a Peace Officer, Detainer)

During these missions, a total of two guns were seized, six vehicles were towed, several other potential buyers were identified, and where applicable, information was gathered to further ongoing investigations related to potential traffickers.

PPB partners with Safety Compass, a non-profit organization that offers advocacy services to individuals under the age of 25 who have survived commercial sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Approximately 30 providers were contacted, and all were offered assistance with resources and/or other advocacy efforts by PPB’s Victim Services Unit and Safety Compass.

HTU cases are complex with several identified barriers such as repeated traumatic exposures, trauma bonds with traffickers, and fear of retaliation. The survivors in these cases are often reluctant to come forward, make a report, and/or continue through the criminal justice process. HTU continues to offer trauma-informed, victim-centered services, in conjunction with PPB Victim Services Unit advocates and community-based partnerships like Safety Compass.

If you know or suspect someone is being trafficked, please call 911, PPB’s non-emergency line 503-823-3333, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888. Tips can also be reported to: humantrafficking@police.portlandoregon.gov.

Photo description: Suspect in custody
Photo description: Vehicle towed
Photo description: Firearm seized

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