Police arrest 21-year-old in human trafficking investigation tied to Bellevue party house

Bellevue police arrested a 21-year-old following a human trafficking investigation centered on a rental home in Bellevue’s Lakemont neighborhood.

The property, dubbed the “OnlyFans House” on social media, was being used to host parties promoted online.

More than 100 neighbors filed complaints about Bellevue party house

The investigation began last fall after the Bellevue Police Department (BPD) received more than 100 complaints from neighbors about the large rental home, according to a news release from the police department.

Officers responded to calls involving assaults, DUIs, weapons complaints, and underage drinking at the property.

Some events drew more than 300 people in attendance — many of them under the age of 18, according to police. Detectives developed evidence that led them to believe human trafficking crimes were taking place at the property.

“Young women were reportedly coerced into participating in sexually explicit content for money,” BPD stated in the release.

The police department noted that under Washington law, second-degree human trafficking includes recruiting, harboring, obtaining, or profiting from another person through force, fraud, coercion, or exploitation for labor or commercial sex.

Police warn parents and teens 

Officers said they witnessed numerous parents dropping off high-school-aged children at the house. The parents, police noted, were likely unaware of the activities taking place inside.

“What may appear on social media to be a glamorous party can expose young people to criminal activity, exploitation, alcohol and drug violations, violence, and serious safety risks,” Bellevue Police Captain Joe Nault said. “Parents need to stay involved and ask questions. Young people need to understand that attending these events can have real consequences.”

Possible charges and evidence seized

The 21-year-old suspect faces possible charges of second-degree human trafficking, leading organized crime, and money laundering.

Investigators seized numerous pieces of evidence and impounded two luxury vehicles, BPD reported.

The police department encouraged anyone who is a victim of sexual exploitation, or anyone who has information about someone who may be a victim, to contact the Bellevue Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit at ViceHT@bellevuewa.gov.

Katrina Guischard is the morning editor for KIRO Newsradio. Read more of her stories here. 

Frank Lenzi is the News Director for KIRO Newsradio. Read more of his stories here.