PORTLAND, Ore. – A Multnomah County man has been sentenced to almost 44 years in prison for repeatedly sexually abusing two young girls over several years, in a case prosecutors described as “unimaginable.”
Lengthy Prison Sentence
On Sept. 19, Multnomah County Circuit Judge handed down a sentence of 43 years and 9 months to Rafael Gonzalez-Rodriguez Jr. The decision followed his conviction earlier this year on dozens of felony charges.
In April 2025, a jury found Gonzalez-Rodriguez guilty on 58 counts of sexual abuse. The charges included:
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Six counts of first-degree rape
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21 counts of first-degree sexual abuse
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Additional charges covering repeated abuse over multiple years
The verdict reflected what prosecutors said was a long-term pattern of predatory behavior against two children.
‘Unimaginable’ Crimes
Deputy District Attorney Rachna Hajari, who prosecuted the case, issued a strong statement when the guilty verdict was announced.
“What happened to these victims at the hands of the defendant was unimaginable,” Hajari said.
She added that while the trauma will never fully leave the victims, the conviction was an important recognition of their courage in coming forward.
“Though the trauma of the sexual abuse will be a part of their lives forever, I hope these convictions and the jury believing the victims will bring them some comfort on their journey of healing and recovery.”
How the Case Unfolded
The investigation began in September 2023, when the young victims confided in close friends and neighbors about the abuse they endured. Those individuals immediately contacted the state’s child abuse hotline, triggering an official response.
The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS), Child Protective Services, and local law enforcement quickly launched an inquiry. During interviews, the victims disclosed that the abuse started when they were as young as five and six years old. The perpetrator was identified as their mother’s former boyfriend, Gonzalez-Rodriguez.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The case highlights the critical role of community awareness and reporting. Friends and neighbors who acted on the children’s disclosures set in motion the investigation that ultimately brought Gonzalez-Rodriguez to justice. Authorities say such immediate reporting can be life-saving in child abuse cases, allowing intervention before more harm occurs.
The Impact on Victims
Child advocates note that sexual abuse has long-term emotional, psychological, and social consequences. Survivors often struggle with trust, mental health challenges, and disrupted development.
By securing a lengthy prison sentence, prosecutors hope the victims feel a measure of validation and safety. While nothing can erase the trauma, holding the offender accountable provides an opportunity for healing to begin.
A Message of Accountability
The nearly 44-year sentence ensures Gonzalez-Rodriguez will remain incarcerated for most of his life. Prosecutors emphasized that the ruling sends a clear message: those who exploit children will face severe consequences.
The Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office also reiterated its commitment to prioritizing crimes against children. The case stands as a reminder of both the resilience of survivors and the importance of collective vigilance in protecting vulnerable members of the community.
Looking Forward
While the victims’ journey of recovery is only beginning, officials hope the outcome of this case demonstrates that their voices were heard and believed. The case also underscores the importance of child protection systems, community support, and the legal process in responding to abuse.
For Gonzalez-Rodriguez, the court’s decision means nearly 44 years behind bars. For the victims, it represents a small but significant step toward justice after years of silence and suffering.
