Portland/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on September 04, 2024
Hillsboro Police Apprehend Suspect Accused of Human Trafficking and Involuntary Servitude of Disabled AdultSource: Google Street View

On August 27, the Hillsboro Police arrested Jack P Hauser on charges including Human Trafficking and Involuntary Servitude. Hauser, also charged with Criminal Mistreatment and failure to register as a sex offender, was not related to the adult male victim with developmental disabilities whom he had allegedly exploited, according to a recent press release by the City of Hillsboro. After the victim's mother passed, Hauser purportedly took over as caretaker, compelling the victim to sell refreshments at a shopping center against his will, often for extended periods without adequate protection or comfort from harsh weather conditions.

Detectives and officers executing search warrants on two properties and four vehicles collected evidence linked to Hauser. Acting as a caretaker, the suspect allegedly forced the 26-year-old victim into selling snacks, where for several days at a time without proper shelter or clothing, he remained. As per the victim's accounts, when not at the shopping center, he was only allowed sleep in a car or an unadorned garden shed, deprived of basic amenities like electricity and running water.

The arrest was the culmination of an extensive investigation led by Officer James Weed and Detective Michael Piper, who, fueled by determination and compassion, responded to reports from concerned citizens about the victim's plight. The community members not only alerted the authorities but also provided support and care to the victim. The department has also acknowledged Open Door Housing Works for their invaluable assistance in securing safe living accommodations for the individual once rescued, as mentioned by the City's official website.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the various guises human trafficking can assume. The Hillsboro Police Department encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of such criminal activities to authorities. In a bid to raise awareness and promote safety, the department has issued a statement on the importance of community involvement in detecting and stopping human trafficking, stressing the significance of collective vigilance.