PORTLAND, Ore. — Two people in Washington County were arrested on prostitution charges, and police believe they're connected to a sex trafficking ring involving women from Oregon, Washington, California and North Carolina.
The Washington County Sheriff's Office said 27-year-old Dwight Dew Jr. and 22-year-old Emily Herrera were operating out of a house in the Bethany neighborhood off Northwest 167th.
"This was kind of like their base of operations," explained David Huey, public information officer for the sheriff's office. He said detectives began investigating activity at the house in August after a tip came in.
The pair were indicted on Oct. 23 by a grand jury. Their combined charges include compelling prostitution of a minor, forgery and rape.
Over a dozen people, including two juveniles, have been connected to the ring.
Court documents reveal Dew texted with victims, at least one under the age of 18, trying to persuade them to participate in prostitution. The sheriff's office believes Dew victimized more people than the three listed in the indictment.
"Their pictures need to be advertised; that is the only way other victims come forward," said Michelle Bart, president of the National Women's Coalition Against Violence and Exploitation.
Bart is a long-time advocate who says often these victims are often vulnerable — and sometimes they're still children.
"It's easy for children — and anyone for that matter — but definitely younger individuals to believe that somebody has their best interest when they don't," Bart said.
Bart and Huey said it's important for the community to speak up, especially if someone is acting suspicious.
"We can’t live in a society where we’re not protecting our neighbors," Bart said.
Anyone with more information about this case is asked to call the Washington County Sheriff's Office.
If you or someone you know is a victim of trafficking you can call Safety Compass Oregon on their 24/7 confidential hotline, 971-235-0021.
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