Crisis Assistance Funds Save a Teenage Sex Trafficking Victim

The Bellevue Police Foundation created a Crisis Assistance Fund in 2020 to give officers immediate resources to help people in moments of crisis and hardship. Before this fund existed, officers often reached into their own pockets to provide support.

In August 2025, a situation arose that actually started in the summer of 2022. At that time, Bellevue Police detectives encountered a 15-year-old girl who had endured significant challenges, including exploitation and struggles with substance abuse starting when she was just 13 years old. Despite her difficult journey, she showed remarkable resilience and a desire to survive. Detective Slusser, who built a case against the individual responsible for exploiting her, stayed in touch with the teenager and her family as her case moved through the court system. Recognizing her strength and determination to turn her life around, the teen made the courageous decision to enter an intensive inpatient treatment program in northern Washington. This program specializes in helping young women who have faced exploitation and are seeking recovery and healing. However, the girl and her mother lacked the resources to travel over 100 miles to the facility.

Thanks to the Crisis Assistance Fund, the girl and her mother were able to cover the costs of traveling 100 miles to the facility, including gas, lodging, and a final shared meal.

Because of this support, the teen was able to safely arrive at the treatment center and take the first steps toward recovery, healing, and a brighter future.