A recent drug enforcement mission led by the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit (NOC) targeted the open-air drug market and related criminal activities in Portland's Downtown/Old Town neighborhood. During the operation on September 4, NOC officers arrested several individuals connected to drug use and possession of a stolen vehicle. According to a Portland Police Bureau press release, the individuals taken into custody were not eligible for deflection services due to outstanding warrants and were charged with possession of a stolen vehicle and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
The police action aimed to improve neighborhood livability, a concern echoed by residents and business owners alike who have witnessed the area becoming a hub for illegal narcotics and related activities. As a part of the ongoing efforts to to swiftly address these issues, the NOC worked in collaboration with East Precinct patrol officers and the Central Precinct Bike Squad. A pivotal moment occurred when officers were able to obtain a search warrant and arrest Khuong Huyna Ta, who was identified as a major drug supplier in the downtown district.
Upon executing the search warrant at Ta's residence, law enforcement found and seized a significant cache of illegal items. Ta faces multiple charges, including felon in possession of a firearm, theft, and delivery of a controlled substance near a school. The controlled substances seized from the location included fentanyl and methamphetamine. NOC investigators seized evidence including: 2 stolen firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, $6,146 dollars, 2.4 lbs. of powdered fentanyl, 332 M30 pills, 3 oz of methamphetamine, as detailed by the Portland Police Bureau release.
The Police Bureau's recent actions represent as part of an ongoing strategy to curb the flow of drugs and reduce associated crimes in the community. Members of the Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit will continue to assist other precincts in similar missions, as indicated by the Portland Police Bureau. Photos released with the bureau's press release depict part of the evidence collected, including firearms, cash, and baggies of illegal drugs as concrete testament to the day's law enforcement efforts.
