Everett officials identify 44 suspected illegal massage shops

Everett police identified 44 suspected illicit massage parlors in a joint effort with the Washington state attorney general’s office, the department announced on Thursday. The investigation aimed to address public health and safety concerns for workers and the surrounding community.

Police issued 10 citations for violations of the city’s ordinance over the past year. Additionally, 11 businesses closed and vacated their spaces after receiving letters from the attorney general. Police spokesperson Natalie Given stated that no arrests were made during the process.

City staff updated the Everett Municipal Code at the direction of Mayor Cassie Franklin to strengthen the city’s ability to address these businesses. The Everett City Council approved the changes in June. The ordinance codifies civil penalties for violations of state regulations and regulates operating hours. It also allows the city to conduct unannounced inspections.

The new law adds misdemeanor penalties for massage workers operating without a license and for operators or employees engaging in sexual misconduct, trafficking, or prostitution. It also imposes penalties on landlords who knowingly rent to businesses breaking these laws. During the June council meeting, advocates expressed concerns that the regulations could unfairly target immigrant workers who face barriers to obtaining licenses.

Officers identified the suspected businesses through online reviews, advertisements, and community tips. These businesses used the appearance of legitimate massage services to conceal illegal activity. Investigators noted that the spaces often contained unpermitted modifications that posed life-safety risks. Workers at some locations used the spaces for sleeping or habitation, contrary to building and safety codes.

Following the ordinance’s passage, police launched an education campaign to inform businesses of the new requirements. Officers attempted in-person contact with all 44 suspected businesses. Bilingual officers spoke directly with employees and operators, providing printed materials in their primary languages. The materials summarized the ordinance and outlined resources on workplace rights, working conditions, and human trafficking.

The Attorney General’s Office used information from The Network, a nonprofit that identifies illicit massage businesses. The office contacted the landlords of 23 businesses in Everett to inform them their tenant may be operating an illicit massage business. Eleven businesses closed in response to these contacts. The office continues to communicate with landlords of businesses that have not closed.

Attorney General Nick Brown said in the release that the coordinated enforcement protects people from trafficking and helps create a safer environment. He expressed pride in the collaboration between his team and the City of Everett to enforce laws and reduce crime.

After the education campaign, police and the Everett Fire Department’s Fire Marshal’s Office inspected the still-operating businesses. As of Thursday, 28 businesses had received inspections. Eight buildings were condemned, and two are under review for possible further action. Condemned buildings are vacated and remain closed until corrections are made and approval to reopen is granted. Three of the eight condemned buildings were allowed to reopen after making required corrections.

Inspectors identified a range of safety hazards during the checks. These included electrical and plumbing work completed without permits, extension cords used in place of permanent wiring, and fire extinguisher deficiencies. Inspectors also found dryers venting into walls and attic spaces, blocked exits, and improper door hardware that could lock people inside during an emergency. Everett Fire Marshal Kurtis Brown said the inspections help find hidden hazards before an emergency occurs.