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Kirkland Police Rescue Sex Trafficking Victim from California

The Kirkland Police Department (KPD) made a significant announcement on Friday, revealing that their officers had successfully rescued a 16-year-old victim of sex trafficking from California.

In a statement released on the city’s website, the KPD explained that the rescue operation had commenced on Saturday, December 2nd, when officers responded to a reported theft at a gas station located in Kirkland’s Totem Lake neighborhood.

Upon arriving at the scene, patrol officers noticed a suspicious vehicle parked near the nearby Motel 6. Acting on information received from the FBI the previous day regarding a missing teenager who was believed to be a victim of human trafficking and potentially at the Motel 6, the KPD officers decided to investigate the vehicle further.

During their investigation, officers discovered items inside the vehicle that raised concerns and led them to believe the missing teenager may be associated with it. This crucial information prompted the KPD to conduct a thorough search of a room at the motel, where they discovered a 16-year-old girl who was later identified as the missing teenager from California. Child Protective Services were immediately contacted to provide the necessary care and support for the rescued teenager.

Following the rescue, the officers swiftly arrested two suspects and impounded the vehicle found at the scene. Both men have been booked into King County Jail and are now facing multiple charges, including the commercial sexual abuse of a minor.

The Kirkland Police Department expressed their gratitude to the Seattle FBI Field Office and Child Protective Services for their invaluable assistance during the operation.

In an effort to raise awareness and combat human trafficking, the KPD concluded their statement with a warning to the general public. They advised anyone suspecting any form of human trafficking, whether involving a minor or an adult being coerced into prostitution or labor, to immediately contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

More Washington crime news: Woman reportedly escapes after being held captive in Gig Harbor; suspect dead

As cases of human trafficking continue to be reported, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies and the public to remain vigilant in identifying and combating this heinous crime. The Kirkland Police Department’s successful rescue operation serves as a reminder of the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting vulnerable individuals from the clutches of human trafficking.

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