Portland Man Arrested in Online Child Exploitation Investigation

Suspect booked on multiple charges of encouraging child sexual abuse

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:23am by

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An extreme close-up of a pair of metal handcuffs against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative visual metaphor for the arrest of a suspect in an online child exploitation case.The arrest of a suspect in an online child exploitation investigation underscores the urgent need for vigilance and reporting to protect vulnerable youth.Portland Today

Portland Police Bureau detectives arrested a 29-year-old Portland man, Justin M. Jespersen, following an investigation into the distribution of child sexual abuse material. Jespersen was booked on 13 counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree and 13 counts of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the exploitation of children online and the serious consequences for those involved in the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material. It also underscores the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspected abuse to authorities.

The details

The investigation began on March 30, 2026, when the Portland Police Bureau Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit received a CyberTipline report indicating that Jespersen was distributing child sexual abuse material. Detectives conducted a follow-up investigation and identified Jespersen as the involved individual. During the investigation, detectives also developed information that Jespersen was actively planning to sexually abuse a young child in the community, prompting them to take swift action and arrest Jespersen to prevent potential harm.

  • The investigation began on March 30, 2026.
  • Jespersen was arrested on April 15, 2026.

The players

Justin M. Jespersen

A 29-year-old Portland resident who was arrested and booked on charges of Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First and Second Degree.

Portland Police Bureau

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and made the arrest.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

The organization that operates the CyberTipline, where the initial report of suspected child exploitation was made.

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What’s next

Jespersen is currently being held in the Multnomah County Detention Center, and the investigation is ongoing. The case will proceed through the criminal justice system, with the suspect facing potential sentencing if convicted on the charges.

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the exploitation of children online and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspected abuse. It serves as a reminder of the serious consequences for those involved in the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material.