MARYSVILLE, Wash. — The Marysville Police Department said its investigation into illicit massage businesses is prompting a broader law-enforcement effort across Snohomish County.
Marysville police identified 23 suspected businesses and shut down 21. Eight were closed through criminal investigation, five through administrative investigation (inspection), and six were rejected through administrative investigation — denial of a business license, while one closed on its own and another withdrew its request to open.
“Human trafficking networks rely on storefronts that blend into the community. By improving our licensing oversight and coordinating closely with regional partners, we were able to shut down illicit massage businesses and stop attempts to reopen,” Marysville Police Chief Erik Scairpon said. “This investigation shows what local action can accomplish when we stay focused, persistent, and committed to protecting people who are often unseen.”
The department also hosted regional training to help other agencies identify similar operations and prevent them from reopening. Partners included The Network, a nonprofit organization that combats human trafficking within illicit massage businesses, the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office, a licensed massage therapist, and Marysville Police staff.
“This industry doesn’t exist by accident,” Marysville Police Crime & Intelligence Analyst Emily Dorscher said. “The fact that there are over 15,000 illicit massage businesses in the United States that generate over $5 billion annually is because of an elaborate business structure mixed with a set of circumstances that we can’t control. As a local agency, we had to find something we could control, and it was through our licensing process.”
Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring said many residents have shared concerns about illicit massage businesses operating in our community.
“This investigation shows what can happen when community members speak up, and our officers take decisive action,” Nehring said. “I am proud of the ProAct Team and our entire department for their thorough work and their dedication to ensuring these illicit operations have no place in our city.”
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