Bothell Advocates Condemn Massage Parlor Raids Amid Prostitution Probe

Advocates in Bothell challenge five massage parlor shutdowns tied to a police investigation of potential prostitution and trafficking, arguing the actions unfairly target Asian-owned businesses and overlook workers’ rights. Police say the closures followed fire-code violations, and investigators found sexually explicit material and makeshift living spaces; one owner was arrested for promoting prostitution and trafficking. Critics call for an end to raids and an inquiry into alleged harassment of workers.