Understanding Prostitution in Everett, WA

Prostitution remains a complex and often contentious issue in cities like Everett, Washington. While often driven underground due to its illegal status, it persists, impacting individuals involved, neighborhoods, and public resources. This article provides a fact-based overview of the legal framework, the realities on the ground, associated risks, and the community resources available for those seeking help or information.

Is Prostitution Legal in Everett?

No, prostitution is illegal throughout Washington State, including Everett. Engaging in, soliciting, or promoting prostitution violates state law (RCW 9A.88). Penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the specific offense and prior convictions.

Everett Police Department (EPD) actively enforces these laws. Patrols focus on known areas of activity, and investigations often involve undercover operations targeting both buyers (“johns”) and sellers. Enforcement aims to disrupt street-level activity, address associated crimes like drug dealing, and connect individuals in prostitution with social services.

Where Does Prostitution Activity Typically Occur in Everett?

Historically, street-based prostitution in Everett has been concentrated in specific commercial and industrial corridors. Areas like parts of Evergreen Way (Highway 99), Casino Road, and certain stretches near the waterfront or older motel districts have frequently reported higher levels of solicitation and related activity.

However, patterns can shift due to enforcement pressure, economic changes, or displacement from other areas. Online solicitation via websites and social media apps has also become a dominant method, making activity less visible on the streets but no less present. This shift complicates both enforcement and outreach efforts.

What Are the Main Risks Associated with Prostitution?

Individuals involved in prostitution face significant physical, legal, and health dangers.

• Violence & Exploitation: High risk of assault, rape, robbery, and homicide from clients, pimps, or traffickers. Coercion and trafficking are tragically common.
• Health Risks: Increased exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and others. Limited access to healthcare and barriers to safe practices exacerbate these risks.
• Substance Abuse: High correlation with drug addiction, both as a coping mechanism and a driver for involvement.
• Legal Consequences: Arrests, criminal records, fines, and jail time create barriers to housing, employment, and stability.
• Mental Health: Severe trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation are prevalent.

How Does Prostitution Impact Everett Neighborhoods?

Visible street prostitution often creates significant community concerns. Residents and business owners in affected areas frequently report issues like increased loitering, public drug use, discarded needles and condoms, noise disturbances, petty theft, and a general perception of decreased safety and property values. The presence of exploitative individuals (pimps/traffickers) further contributes to criminal activity.

This places a burden on city services, including police, sanitation, and social services, diverting resources that could be used elsewhere. Community meetings often highlight these frustrations, leading to pressure on law enforcement for increased patrols and targeted operations.

What Resources Are Available in Everett for People Wanting to Leave Prostitution?

Snohomish County offers several pathways to support and exit.

• PRO Court (Prostitution Recovery Opportunity): This Snohomish County therapeutic court program offers an alternative to jail for individuals facing prostitution charges. It connects participants with intensive case management, substance abuse treatment, mental health counseling, housing assistance, job training, and life skills development to address root causes and build a stable life.
• Victim Support Services (VSS): Provides comprehensive advocacy and support services to victims of crime, including trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Offers crisis intervention, safety planning, legal advocacy, counseling, and connections to resources. (425) 252-6081 or vssc.org.
• Everett Police Diversion & Outreach: EPD officers often work with social service providers to connect individuals encountered during enforcement actions with help, emphasizing diversion programs like PRO Court over incarceration.
• Community Health Center of Snohomish County: Provides confidential, non-judgmental healthcare, including STI testing/treatment, mental health services, and substance use disorder treatment. Crucial for addressing immediate health needs. Multiple locations (chcsno.org).
• Cocoon House: Focuses on youth homelessness and runaway services, including support for youth vulnerable to or experiencing exploitation. (cocoonhouse.org)

What is Human Trafficking and How is it Linked?

Human trafficking involves force, fraud, or coercion to exploit someone for labor or commercial sex. Sex trafficking is a severe form of modern-day slavery and is intrinsically linked to the illegal sex trade, including prostitution in cities like Everett. Many individuals in prostitution, especially minors and vulnerable adults, are victims of trafficking, controlled by others through violence, threats, debt bondage, or psychological manipulation.

Washington State has strong anti-trafficking laws. Recognizing the signs of trafficking is crucial. Indicators include someone appearing controlled or fearful, showing signs of physical abuse, having few personal possessions, lacking control over identification or money, inability to speak freely, or inconsistencies in their story. If you suspect trafficking, report it to the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to BEFREE (233733).

How Can the Community Respond Effectively?

A balanced approach focusing on both enforcement and support is essential.

• Support Diversion Programs: Advocate for and support programs like PRO Court that offer rehabilitation instead of just punishment.
• Fund Social Services: Support organizations providing housing, healthcare, addiction treatment, and job training for vulnerable populations and those seeking exit.
• Report Concerns Wisely: Report suspected trafficking or exploitation immediately to law enforcement or the hotline. For general nuisance concerns related to street activity, report specific incidents (location, time, descriptions) to Everett Police non-emergency (425-407-3999) or via online reporting. Avoid confronting individuals directly.
• Combat Stigma: Recognize that individuals in prostitution are often victims themselves. Support policies and language that focus on harm reduction and survivor support.

The situation surrounding prostitution in Everett is complex, rooted in systemic issues like poverty, addiction, trauma, and exploitation. While enforcement plays a role in addressing immediate community impacts and disrupting trafficking, long-term solutions require robust support systems, accessible exit pathways, and addressing the underlying vulnerabilities that lead individuals into the trade. Understanding the legal realities, the profound risks involved, and the resources available for help is crucial for both community members and those seeking a way out.