KITTITAS COUNTY, WA — Two men have been arrested on charges of promoting prostitution following a human trafficking sting operation conducted Thursday and Friday, the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office announced.
Dallas Kristan Newman, 34, of Cle Elum, and Carl Theodore Taylor, 35, are accused of knowingly transporting women for the purpose of sex work. Authorities say the arrests are part of a broader initiative to disrupt criminal networks involved in trafficking and prostitution.
Inspector Chris Whitsett emphasized that the sting was not only about arrests, but also about offering help to victims. Police partnered with ASPEN Victim Advocacy Services, a local nonprofit that provides emergency housing, counseling, and legal resources for survivors of exploitation.
During the operation, officers from Othello and Ellensburg Police Departments also cited 12 men for seeking prostitution. Authorities and ASPEN representatives contacted six women, offering them support and assistance.
Officials are urging the public to report suspicious behavior by contacting the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office at (509) 962-7525 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. You can also text “HELP” to 233733.
