KIRKLAND, Wash. – Kirkland Police Department (KPD) officers made a significant rescue during a routine theft investigation at a motel in Totem Lake. The officers discovered and rescued a 16-year-old girl who they believed was a victim of human trafficking.
The investigation began with a theft report at a local gas station. KPD patrol officers noticed a suspicious vehicle near Motel 6 and decided to investigate further. The FBI had provided information about a missing California teenager who was suspected to be a victim of sex trafficking and possibly staying at the same motel. The officer’s suspicions were confirmed when they found the missing teenager inside one of the motel rooms.
Acting swiftly, the officers arrested two suspects and impounded the vehicle. Child Protective Services was called in to provide care and support for the rescued girl.
Both suspects have been booked into King County Jail and are being investigated for multiple crimes, including Promoting Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor. The cooperation between the KPD, the FBI, and Child Protective Services played a crucial role in the successful resolution of this case.
The FBI expressed their satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “This is something the FBI was working very hard on over the weekend trying to locate this girl, and it worked out great that (she was) recovered safely.” An investigation was launched after the FBI received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that the girl might be in the area.
In light of this event, authorities urge anyone who suspects instances of human trafficking to report their concerns to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Whether it involves minors or adults coerced into prostitution or labor, reporting such cases can lead to the rescue and protection of potential victims.
This successful rescue operation highlights the dedication and collaboration of law enforcement agencies and child protection services in combating human trafficking and ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.