PPB's Human Trafficking Unit Selected for Demonstration Site (Photo)

May 26, 2023 14:59

  Follow @PortlandPolice

PPB’s Human Trafficking Unit has been selected to serve as a demonstration site by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime (OVC).

PPB was selected out of 30 agencies to be one of five sites for the Building Agency Capacity: A Toolkit for Human Trafficking Investigations project. This two-year study will provide dedicated resources, support, and technical assistance to enhance efforts to identify and assist human trafficking victims and conduct investigations using trauma-informed, victim-centered principles.

The Human Trafficking Unit (HTU), which is part of PPB’s Detective Division, investigates crimes involving sex trafficking and labor trafficking, with a focus on juvenile victims. HTU investigates Measure 11 crimes and additional felony level trafficking offenses. The Unit simultaneously conducts rescue missions for victims of trafficking and disrupts the demand side of trafficking by conducting buyer suppression and directed patrol missions. HTU, alongside advocates from PPB’s Victim Services Unit, continue to offer trauma-informed, victim-centered services.

Cases are also generated from Crime Stopper Tips, National Human Trafficking Hotline, federal and local law enforcement partners, Department of Human Services, and follow up on patrol reports. HTU regularly corresponds with neighboring agencies and federal partners to rescue and identify victims.

“PPB’s Human Trafficking Unit has been on the forefront of responding to and investigating sex and labor trafficking in the Portland area,” said Chief Chuck Lovell. “There is always room for growth and improvement and that is why the unit applied for the project. I’m pleased PPB was selected, and I know the members of the Human Trafficking Unit look forward to working with the IACP and partners on this important project.”

Photo description: HTU Patch

###PPB###

*************

---

Email News Releases

Get News Releases from the PPB directly to your inbox.

Open Data Portal

Datasources from the Portland Police Bureau.

Social Media

Social Media and Podcasts from PPB.

---

Media Relations

Police Media Resources

Strategic Communications Unit
PPBPIO@police.portlandoregon.gov
Phone: 503-823-0830
1111 SW 2nd Ave
Portland, OR 97204

---

Recent Headlines:

PPB News Archives


           

© OpenStreetMap contributors