Corrected Date Joint Organized Crime & Money Laundering Operation

King County, Washington sent this bulletin at 05/09/2023 10:36 AM PDT

Joint Organized Crime & Money Laundering Operation

On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, King County Sheriff’s Office Detectives arrested two (2) suspects in connection with a two-year-long organized crime and money laundering operation.

The investigation began in January 2021 after a complaint was lodged by a community member about a massage parlor in Burien. The verbal complaint alleged concerns of prostitution, and other suspicious behavior, occurring at the business.
Detectives looked into the concerns and their investigation led them to nine (9) different businesses spanning four (4) different counties – Benton, King, Snohomish, and Skagit. (A map of the locations can be viewed HERE.)

On the final day of the operation, Detectives served 11 warrants at multiple locations and seized over $600 thousand dollars in US currency. Along with support from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and The Genesis Project, KCSO also rescued 23 victims, all of whom were offered resources. (Stats sheet can be found HERE.)

The suspects, Jing and Gerald Emtage were booked into King County Jail. Each has been charged with Leading Organized Crime, Money Laundering, and ten (10) counts of Promoting Prostitution in the Second Degree. The next court date is arraignment, scheduled for May 11 at 9:00 am at the MRJC.

We’d like to recognize all the agencies that assisted and supported us throughout this investigation:

KCSO Intel Unit

KCSO Special Assault Unit (SAU)

SeaTac PD Special Emphasis Team (SET)

Precinct 4 SET

Precinct 4 High Visibility Team (HVT)

Precinct 5 SET

Precinct 5 Criminal Investigations Division

Metro SET

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)

Skagit County Task Force

Kirkland SET

Richland SET

Renton SET

King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office

The Genesis Project

"Successful investigations - like this one by the King County Sheriff's Office and partners - bring the dangers of organized crime out of the shadows and shed light on the serious issue of exploitation of vulnerable people in our communities. Through collaboration at multiple levels of law enforcement and across jurisdictions, the perpetrators are being brought to justice, and the victims are receiving the support they need to move forward. I want to thank all those involved for their diligence, thoroughness, and dedication."

Dow Constantine, King County Executive.

“Organized crime is a disease that preys on the most vulnerable in our society, and it thrives in the shadows of our communities. But through coordinated efforts and collaborative partnerships, we can bring these criminals to justice and protect those who are being exploited. I’m incredibly proud of our Detectives and partners who have worked tirelessly to investigate and bring justice to those who have been wronged. It takes the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies, government officials, and community voices to dismantle these criminal enterprises and ensure that those who profit from the suffering of others are held accountable."

Patti Cole-Tindall, King County Sheriff

“This case sends a clear message: The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will not turn a blind eye to gender-based exploitation and organized crime in our community, and those who engage in these serious crimes will be held accountable. I am very grateful to our law enforcement partners for their diligent work in this complex investigation. Collaborative partnerships like this are critical for stopping individuals who seek to make a profit by taking advantage of women and vulnerable populations.”

Leesa Manion, King County Prosecuting Attorney

“HSI is committed to providing assistance to victims anywhere, anytime it is needed in our communities. Those that would attempt to exploit people in exchange for money cannot be allowed to operate unchecked and will find the full capabilities of law enforcement ready to bring them down. Our law enforcement and nonprofit partnerships are a force multiplier throughout the Pacific Northwest in fighting organized crime.”