In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, the Portland Police Bureau’s dedicated operatives have brought four individuals to justice. Following a methodical investigation by the bureau’s Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) in coordination with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA), two traffickers and two buyers involved in the exploitation of a juvenile were convicted. The investigation, which began with a contact in December 2023, has culminated in substantial prison terms for all offenders, as per an official report from the Portland Police Bureau.
The case unfolded on Northeast 82nd Avenue, where a 16-year-old girl was spotted engaging in commercial sex acts and initially refused to cooperate with law enforcement. Come March 2024, however, she approached the HTU, and her testimony was instrumental in the investigation that followed. Her disturbing revelation of trafficking since she was 13 years old led to the arrest of two key traffickers, along with two buyers, who had knowingly engaged with a minor over a prolonged period.
Portland’s law enforcement focused on a victim-centered approach that prompted all four defendants to plead guilty. According to the Portland Police Bureau’s announcement, the convicted individuals are James J. Alfonsi, sentenced to 80 months in prison; Vladimir I. Tishenko, handed a five-year sentence; Domonique L. Williams, facing 19 years; and Kai’Leif L. Newcomb, sentenced to 15 years…