In February, Portland police carried out a human trafficking sting operation in Northeast Portland. The goal of this operation was to rescue vulnerable individuals, including teens, and stop the illegal activities of sex traffickers. The operation focused on a section of the city along NE 82nd Ave. and NE Sandy Blvd. This area had become a hotspot for trafficking activity, with many community members reporting suspicious behavior.
Police had received numerous complaints about this corridor, and they observed clear signs of sex trafficking. As a result, officers decided to act swiftly to intervene. Their work involved not only rescuing victims, including teens, but also arresting suspects involved in trafficking and prostitution.
Nine arrested in the operation for sex trafficking-related charges
During the sting, nine people were arrested on charges of commercial sexual solicitation and unlawful prostitution. These charges relate to attempts to buy or sell sex in exchange for money. The investigation was a joint effort, with many different law enforcement agencies involved. Local police were supported by regional partners who helped carry out the operation. Teens were among those most impacted.
The suspects arrested ranged in age from 22 to 60 years old. They were arrested at different locations along NE 82nd Ave. and NE Sandy Blvd. Police are still investigating their connections to other trafficking networks in the area. The nine individuals now face serious charges, and they are being held in custody as the investigation continues.
Here are the names of the suspects arrested:
- Hermes Cardona Carreto, 42, Portland, Ore.
- Alexander Davidoff, 33, Portland, Ore.
- Cesar Gorgonio Lopez, 40, Vancouver, Wash.
- Billy Hanen Jr, 52, Portland, Ore.
- Serhii Muntian, 39, Happy Valley, Ore.
- Broderick Nelson, 39, Vancouver, Wash.
- Jamon Pettit, 60, Camas, Wash.
- Silas Reima, 22, Portland, Ore.
- Sandeep Varala, 26, Vancouver, Wash.
Two teens safe and reunited with their families
One of the most important outcomes of the operation was the rescue of two teenagers. Although police did not release the teens’ ages or identities, they confirmed that both were safely removed from the dangerous situation. The teens were taken into protective care and later reunited with their families. This part of the operation was a success, with the police working hard to ensure their safety and well-being.
Human trafficking is a serious crime that affects young people across the country. The police are committed to finding and rescuing victims, especially minors, who are often targeted by traffickers. The teens in this case were incredibly lucky to be found in time. They now have the opportunity to heal and rebuild their lives with the support of their loved ones.
Ongoing investigations and future plans
The sting did not just result in arrests. Teens being involved brought additional attention to the operation and it also provided valuable information for further investigations. Police towed a vehicle during the operation and found evidence that will help them track down additional suspects involved in the trafficking ring. Investigators are now following up on leads to find more traffickers, buyers, and victims.
This operation is part of a broader effort to combat sex trafficking in the Portland area. Police continue to monitor known hotspots and gather intelligence from community members. They are determined to make the city safer for everyone by disrupting trafficking networks and holding criminals accountable. Their dedication aims to protect vulnerable groups, especially teens.
Authorities have also warned the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity they might notice. By working together, they believe they can make a real difference in preventing future trafficking and ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
