PORTLAND, Ore. — Four people have been convicted in a major human trafficking case involving the exploitation of a 16-year-old girl in Portland, with sentences ranging from five years to nearly two decades, the Portland Police Bureau announced this week.
Case Origins
The investigation began in December 2023, when officers with the Portland Police Bureau’s Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) encountered a 16-year-old engaged in commercial sex acts on Northeast 82nd Avenue. At the time, the teenager declined to cooperate with law enforcement.
In March 2024, she later came forward and disclosed that she had been trafficked since the age of 13. Her testimony provided critical information that led to the arrest of two traffickers and two men who knowingly bought sex from a minor.
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Investigation and Charges
The HTU, working in partnership with the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (MCDA), pursued a victim-centered approach throughout the case. Investigators said that strategy helped secure guilty pleas from all four defendants, sparing the victim from having to testify in open court.
“This case reflects the importance of trauma-informed policing,” the bureau said in its statement. “By prioritizing the safety and dignity of victims, law enforcement is better able to dismantle trafficking operations and secure convictions.”
Sentences Handed Down
The four convicted individuals and their sentences are:
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James J. Alfonsi — 80 months in prison
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Vladimir I. Tishenko — 5 years in prison
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Domonique L. Williams — 19 years in prison
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Kai’Leif L. Newcomb — 15 years in prison
Prosecutors said the sentences reflect both the severity of the crimes and the extended period of exploitation.
Police Response
Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day emphasized that human trafficking is a local problem as well as a global one.
“This case is a stark reminder that human trafficking is not a distant problem,” Day said. “It is happening right here in our community. Our focus must remain on protecting victims and ensuring traffickers are held accountable.”
Day added that combating trafficking requires collaboration between law enforcement, prosecutors, and community partners.
Community Impact
Authorities said the case highlights the ongoing presence of trafficking in Portland and the importance of community vigilance. Victims are often young, isolated, and coerced, making it difficult for them to come forward without targeted outreach and support.
Officials also noted that both traffickers and buyers face serious legal consequences. “This investigation demonstrates that those who exploit minors, whether by trafficking them or purchasing sex, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the HTU said.
Resources and Reporting
The Portland Police Bureau urged anyone with knowledge or suspicions of human trafficking to come forward. For emergencies, residents should call 911. Non-urgent tips related to Portland can be submitted via the bureau’s dedicated human trafficking email address.
For national support, individuals can also contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733 (BEFREE).
