Damani Anderson’s mugshot was released in 2024, as Portland Police sought more victims during the initial investigation.
Portland, Ore. – A 20-year-old Portland man pleaded guilty Friday to multiple sexual assaults. Prosecutors say the horrific case should serve as a warning to others.
Damani Anderson’s victims were between the ages of 13 and 19, “Young women that were brutally, brutally assaulted by him,” says Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez. Investigators know of five victims, but Vasquez says there may be more. “He purposely preyed on these young women,” Vasquez adds, “A firearm was used. Their lives were threatened. They were secluded in dangerous areas; I know these victims believed that they were going to die.” He says Anderson’s crimes started before he turned 18. Most of the attacks occurred in North Portland.
The investigation began in 2024, after a victim – in a state of undress – ran from her attacker to a nearby home. “She sought out strangers to help her, because she was in such horrific distress,” says Vasquez, “Based upon the investigation, we started to uncover multiple other victims. I’m so thankful that we were able to intervene and stop the conduct. I just wish we could’ve done it sooner.”
Anderson met most of his victims online, through social media and dating apps, where Vasquez says, “People can pretend to be anyone they want.” He urges people starting a relationship online to take precautions, “You really don’t know what you get until, I think, you have an opportunity to meet with them and start to understand who they are.” He says online dating is often safe, but encourages people to create a safety plan before getting together in-person, “Meet in public, don’t go to secluded areas. Make sure your friends and family know where you are.”
Vasquez says Anderson’s plea deal ensures the victims aren’t re-traumatized by a trial. Sentencing is scheduled for Thursday; he’s expected to get 45 years in prison.
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Heather Roberts
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