Human Trafficking Victims Rescued in Bellingham Spa Raid

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BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON - In a significant operation today, authorities rescued two victims of suspected human trafficking during a search of 33 Mansion Mental Massage Spa, located at 1333 Lincoln Street, Suite 2, Bellingham, WA. The spa, situated directly across from Carl Cozier Elementary School, was the focus of an extensive investigation led by the Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force (WGDTF) in collaboration with the Bellingham Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Customs and Border Protection.

The search warrant was executed following months of community tips and investigative leads suggesting the spa was involved in human trafficking activities. Authorities had uncovered online advertisements indicating that females at this location were being offered for commercial sex acts.

During the raid, deputies from the WGDTF (Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force) rescued two individuals who were identified as victims of trafficking. HSI is now working to provide them with necessary resources and support. The operation also uncovered several code violations, with Bellingham’s Code Enforcement and Planning Department documenting these issues. Notices of non-compliance will be issued to the property owners, who will be held responsible for the state of their commercial leased spaces.

Public Information Officer Deb Slater told Bellingham Metro News in an email that no valid business or massage licenses were found at the location. She emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and further details will be released as the case progresses.

This raid marks a crucial step in addressing human trafficking in the region and highlights the ongoing efforts of local and federal agencies to combat such crimes.

*Note: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.