Press Release
Sheriff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kittitas County Sheriff's Office Conducts Human Trafficking Operation

Kittitas County, WA - 05/23/2025 - The Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office has concluded a two-day human trafficking operation targeting sex trafficking networks in our county. The Ellensburg and Othello Police Departments provided essential support for this operation.

A key goal of the operation was offering a way out for people being trafficked. The Sheriff’s Office partnered with ASPEN Victim Advocacy Services to ensure that trafficked women contacted in this operation had access to resources to facilitate escape and recovery. ASPEN provides emergency safe housing, counseling, and legal support to help trafficked people transition away from exploitation.

During the operation, a 34-year old Cle Elum man and a 35-year old Kent man were arrested for promoting prostitution. Evidence indicated that the two men knowingly transported women to perform sex work and intended to profit from the women’s acts. Investigations into these felony charges continues. Kittitas County is committed to both combating human trafficking and creating avenues of escape for those affected. The public is asked to report any suspicious activity they believe may relate to human trafficking.

Anyone with information or concerns can contact the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office at (509) 962-7525, or via email at sheriff.office@co.kittitas.wa.us. The National Human Trafficking Hotline is also available at 1-888-373-7888, or text "HELP" to 233733 for immediate assistance. If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911. Your help is vital in holding traffickers accountable and providing victims a way out of a life of exploitation.
 

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Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us

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Contact: Chris Whitsett
christopher.whitsett@co.kittitas.wa.us

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