Milwaukie Police arrest 12 in online prostitution sting
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Milwaukie Police Department arrested 12 people during an online prostitution sting on Feb. 28, which targeted prostitutes, people purchasing sex and sex traffickers.
Authorities involved in the interagency sting made the arrests at two separate locations within the city of Milwaukee. The suspects were lured to the location by decoy officers posing as people agreeing to exchange money for sex through various online dating sites and applications.
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“[Prostitutes] were arrested upon arrival and issued a citation release for prostitution,” Mulwaukie Police said. “They were directed to on-scene support services provided by the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office.”
Evidence seized during a Milwaukie Police Department prostitution sting on Feb. 28, 2024. (MPD) Milwaukie police cash
Two of the alleged prostitutes arrived with alleged sex traffickers. The men arrested for sex trafficking were 28-year-old Marquese Sykes of Tacoma and 25-year-old Jalen Frazier of Portland. One of the suspects was found in possession of a handgun and thousands of dollars in $100 bills.
“Investigators are concerned the [aforementioned] sex traffickers have additional victims.” Milwaukie PD stated.
Suspects who allegedly attempted to purchase sex from decoys were arrested at a separate location. They were arrested and cited for engaging in prostitution and freed.
Victims of sex trafficking can seek help by calling the Safety Compass Oregon 24-hour survivor support line: (971) 235-0021 or 888-373-7888.
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