SEATTLE – A renewed push for action on Seattle’s notorious Aurora Avenue has emerged. 

Reports show that City Councilmember Cathy Moore suggested the reinstatement of an old loitering law to address escalating concerns over crime in the corridor. The proposal comes amidst mounting worries about exploitation and trafficking, issues that Mayor Bruce Harrell’s office has also vowed to tackle.

Harrell’s office announced Tuesday that May 7th will be designated as Child Sex Trafficking Prevention Day. The proclamation was made during an annual luncheon hosted by the non-profit organization StolenYouth, which identifies Aurora as the epicenter of sex trafficking in Washington State.

Renee Wallace, representing StolenYouth, highlighted the severity of the problem, noting that trafficking extends along the 99 corridor from Pacific Highway in the south to Aurora in the north. She emphasized that many children engaged in the sex trade are doing so out of necessity and may not fully comprehend the exploitation they endure. 

StolenYouth estimates an estimated 500 children and youth (under the age of 24) are trafficked each year in Seattle alone. 

“It’s a huge issue, especially since the pandemic, it has increased,” noted Wallace. “It’s not only on Aurora Avenue but it’s online as well.”

Wallace’s concerns are echoed by recent events, including a disturbing case earlier this year where Bellevue Police arrested a man who used Snapchat to lure underage girls from Oregon to his Federal Way home. Subsequently, the girls were forced into sex work on Aurora.

The issues on Aurora extend beyond exploitation, as evidenced by a recent incident captured on camera in March, depicting gunfire exchanged during a turf war between pimps near Northgate. Residents in the area have expressed growing fear for their safety amidst the escalating violence.

Aurora Avenue falls within District 5, represented by newly elected City Councilmember Cathy Moore, who has been inundated with complaints from constituents. In response, Moore has floated the idea of reviving an old city ordinance related to prostitution loitering, which was repealed unanimously in 2020 due to concerns over the potential discriminatory impact and arbitrary enforcement of such laws.

While some advocate for a crackdown, others, like Renee Wallace, emphasize the importance of prevention and addressing the root causes of exploitation. As a former victim of trafficking herself, Wallace believes that understanding and addressing the underlying vulnerabilities is crucial in combating sex trafficking.

“We tend to put a lot of Band-Aids on things and the city is hemorrhaging,” Wallace pointed out. “There is the misconception that it’s only happening out on the streets. Kids are more susceptible to getting exploited by playing online video games.” 

As discussions continue, attention turns to whether Mayor Harrell will support Moore’s proposal. Her office reports she has been discussing solutions with his office in addition to former sex workers, the city attorney and Seattle Police. 

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Highs this afternoon will range below average in the mid to upper 50s. However, the 80s will likely make an appearance in Western Washington on Friday and Saturday. 

There may be isolated showers today, but most backyards in Western Washington will wind up dry. A few downpours could be locally heavy. If any showers develop over the Cascades, not much in the way of additional accumulation of snow is expected.

Beginning Wednesday, a warmer and drier trend takes hold. Highs reach the low 60s in Seattle tomorrow. Temperatures boost to the low to mid-70s on Thursday before skyrocketing to the 80s Friday and Saturday. 

While showers are in the forecast today, sunnier skies are in store Wednesday and Thursday. (FOX 13 Seattle)

It’s important to remember that we need to practice water safety this time of year! Water temperatures are still running dangerously cold. If you’re cooling off along a river, creek or lake, wear a life vest and be careful. Year-round, temperatures are cold in Puget Sound.

Highs will skyrocket above average this week across Puget Sound. Temperatures could lift into the 80s Friday and Saturday. (FOX 13 Seattle)

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Temperatures gradually climb this week across Seattle and Puget Sound. (FOX 13 Seattle)

Enjoy the sunshine for Mother’s Day!

Take good care, 

Meteorologist Abby Acone and Chief Meteorologist Brian MacMillan
 

In the latest matchup against the Seattle Sounders FC, LA Galaxy maintained their undefeated record in direct clashes during the MLS regular season. The 0-0 draw, though not resulting in a win, provided an intriguing insight into the team’s tactical and strategic dynamics.

The match, held at Lumen Field before an audience of over 31,000 spectators, was a crucial test for LA Galaxy. Facing a historically challenging opponent, the team needed to not only demonstrate defensive resilience but also seek significant offensive opportunities.

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From the outset, it was clear that LA Galaxy was prepared to withstand the pressure imposed by the Seattle Sounders FC. With a solid defense led by names like Jalen Neal and Julián Aude, the Galaxy repeatedly frustrated the hosts’ offensive thrusts. John McCarthy’s performance in goal, recording his second clean sheet of the season, was crucial in maintaining the team’s defensive stability.

The lack of effectiveness in finishing stood out as a recurring concern for LA Galaxy. Despite creating some promising chances, the team struggled to convert these opportunities into goals. This raises questions about Galaxy’s attacking efficiency and the need to improve precision and decision-making in front of the opponent’s goal.

One positive point to highlight is the individual performance of players like Julián Aude, who demonstrated his versatility and skill both in defense and attack. Aude won most duels, regained possession, and provided a reliable presence at both ends of the field. Jalen Neal also deserves recognition for his consistent performance in his first start in the MLS regular season.

It is crucial to recognize the context in which LA Galaxy is operating. With a series of away games, the team faces additional challenges in terms of logistics and fatigue. Their ability to secure important points, even away from home, is a testament to their resilience and determination.

LA Galaxy needs to capitalize on these points and turn their solid performance into concrete results. The battle for consistency and the pursuit of a higher position in the standings requires a comprehensive strategic approach, both in terms of gameplay tactics and squad management.

The next challenge for LA Galaxy will be facing Real Salt Lake at home, a crucial opportunity to accumulate points and boost their position in the standings. With a favorable record in their direct matchups and the support of their fans at Dignity Health Sports Park, the Galaxy has the opportunity to reaffirm itself as one of the top contenders in this MLS season.