Everett officials identify 44 suspected illicit massage parlors

Everett police identified 44 suspected illicit massage parlors in a joint effort with the Washington state attorney general’s office.

The department announced the findings on Thursday, detailing a yearlong campaign to address public health and safety concerns for workers and residents. Police issued 10 citations for violations of the city’s ordinance during this period. Additionally, 11 businesses closed and vacated their locations after receiving letters from the attorney general. No arrests were made in the operation, according to police spokesperson Natalie Given.

City staff updated the Everett Municipal Code to strengthen enforcement capabilities. The City Council approved these changes in June. The new rules codify civil penalties for state regulation violations, restrict operating hours, and allow unannounced inspections. The ordinance also adds misdemeanor penalties for workers operating without licenses and for those involved in sexual misconduct, trafficking, or prostitution.

Landlords who knowingly rent to businesses breaking these laws face penalties under the new code. Advocates raised concerns during the June council meeting that the regulations could unfairly target immigrant workers who face barriers to obtaining licenses. The city stated the rules are intended to protect public safety and support licensed businesses.

Investigators identified the 44 suspected businesses through online reviews, advertisements, and community tips. These establishments used the appearance of legitimate services to conceal illegal activity. Many contained unpermitted modifications that posed life-safety risks. Workers at some locations used the commercial spaces for sleeping or habitation, contrary to building and safety codes.

Police and fire departments, along with the Community Alternative Response Everett team, developed a holistic approach to address these operations. The strategy focused on unlicensed services, inadequate credentials, fire deficiencies, and suspected reoccupation after closure. Law enforcement used standard pathways to investigate trafficking concerns, prioritizing employee safety and access to social resources.

Following the ordinance’s passage, police launched an education campaign to inform businesses of new requirements. Officers attempted in-person contact with all 44 suspected locations. Bilingual officers spoke directly with employees and provided printed materials in their primary languages summarizing the ordinance and workplace rights. If direct contact was not made, officers left materials at the business or mailed them to the operator.

The attorney general’s office used information from The Network, a nonprofit that supports law enforcement investigations. The office contacted landlords of 23 businesses to inform them their tenants may be operating illicitly. Eleven businesses closed in response to this contact. The office remains in communication with landlords of the remaining businesses to ensure adherence to the law.

Attorney General Nick Brown said the coordinated enforcement protects people from trafficking and creates a safer environment. He stated that his team is proud of the collaboration with the City of Everett to enforce laws and reduce crime. Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin expressed gratitude to the police, fire department, CARE team, and the attorney general’s office for their coordinated effort.

Police and the Everett Fire Department’s Fire Marshal’s Office inspected the businesses that remained operational after the education campaign. Inspectors identified hazards including electrical and plumbing work completed without permits, extension cords used in place of permanent wiring, and fire extinguisher deficiencies. Dryers venting into walls and attic spaces were also found. Blocked exits and improper door hardware that could lock people inside during an emergency were discovered.

Everett Fire Marshal Kurtis Brown noted that these inspections help find hidden hazards before an emergency occurs. He said that when violations are found, the fire department works with owners on corrections or refers building and code compliance concerns to city partners. A member of the Community Alternative Response Everett team was on-site during checks to connect employees to resources.

As of Thursday, 28 of the suspected businesses received inspections. Eight were condemned, and two are under review for possible further action. Condemned buildings must be vacated and remain closed until corrections are made and approval to reopen is granted. Three of the eight condemned businesses were allowed to reopen after making required corrections. Marysville Police Department announced the shutdown of 21 similar businesses in September.