It's not though. I've visited friends there anually for the last 15 years. Last year I genuinely feared for my life and this summer my friends totally understand why I'm refusing to enter city limits.
I am very eager for this crime wave moral panic thing to end so I don't have to nod sagely when someone says ridiculous stuff like this (in person, obviously online I'll just communicate my real thoughts).
Well, I've lived here for the last 15 years and other than getting buzzed by a car once or twice on my bike I have not ever "feared for my life".
If Portland makes you afraid for your life maybe don't go outside ever again. It's only scary if you're afraid of other people.