In 2025, Snohomish County faced a mix of serious incidents and proactive law enforcement efforts. Below are the highlights from our 2025 crime and public safety coverage.
Marysville Police Department welcomes new K-9 Officers
On December 8, 2025, the Marysville Police Department held a swearing-in ceremony for two new K-9 officers: Kona (15-month-old Belgian Malinois from the Netherlands, partnered with Officer TJ San Miguel) and Charlie (23-month-old German Shepherd from Germany, partnered with Officer Calen Roberts). The event, attended by Mayor Jon Nehring and Chief Erik Scairpon, celebrated their Washington State Police Canine Association certification achieved in early November. The teams will enhance public safety through specialized detection, patrol, and community engagement duties in Marysville.
Decade of sexual harassment and wage theft exposed in AG lawsuit against bikini barista boss
On September 16, 2025, Washington Attorney General’s Office filed a lawsuit in King County Superior Court against Jonathan Tagle, owner of Paradise Espresso (four bikini barista stands in King and Snohomish counties). The nine-count complaint alleges 12+ years of quid pro quo sexual harassment (nudity in interviews, unwanted touching, sexual comments/favors for job benefits), retaliation (reduced hours, termination, surveillance), and systemic wage theft (unpaid training/shifts, delayed payments below minimum wage, tip deductions, denied sick leave). The AG seeks injunctions, back pay, damages, and costs.
19 arrested in Sinaloa Cartel-linked drug trafficking operation spanning Mexico to WA state
In August 2025, federal, state, and local agencies arrested 19 individuals tied to a Sinaloa Cartel-affiliated network distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin in western Washington. Led by brothers Rosario Abel “Joaquin” and Francisco “Fernando” Camargo Banuelos from Mexico, the operation used semi-trucks via California. Raids seized 465 lbs methamphetamine, 269 lbs fentanyl, 23 lbs cocaine, 6.4 lbs heroin, weapons, and $342,000. Thirteen defendants are in custody facing mandatory minimum sentences. The probe, part of Operation Take Back America, highlights interagency efforts against cartel activity. Separately, cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada Garcia pleaded guilty to racketeering.
DoorDash driver, high on meth, crashes car then lights it on fire all while delivering food in Lynnwood
On August 13, 2025, a DoorDash driver, allegedly under the influence of methamphetamine, crashed into a tree on the 5100 block of 192nd Street SW in Lynnwood while on a delivery. He then set the vehicle on fire with a lighter and fled on foot, hiding under a parked car. Lynnwood Police responded around 8 p.m.; Officer Hydara extinguished the flames, and Officers Magnuessen and K9 Cannon located and arrested the suspect. He admitted to the crash, arson, and hit-and-run. Charges include arson, DUI (drugs), and hit-and-run. The delivery was not completed.
Lynnwood Police arrest suspect after high-speed pursuit through multiple cities
On August 4, 2025, Lynnwood Police arrested 32-year-old Neff after a high-speed pursuit that began in Everett, passed through Mukilteo and Edmonds, and ended in Lynnwood. Officers attempted to stop Neff for traffic violations; he fled at speeds over 100 mph, ran red lights, and drove recklessly. The chase was terminated for safety but resumed when Neff slowed. He was taken into custody without injury after stopping in a residential area. Charges include felony eluding, reckless driving, and driving while license suspended. Lynnwood PD emphasized community safety and thanked partnering agencies.
Arlington High School holds 2025 graduation ceremony
Arlington High School celebrated its 2025 commencement on June 13 at the Everett Events Center, honoring 412 graduates. The ceremony featured speeches from valedictorian Mia Thompson and salutatorian Ethan Ramirez, who spoke on resilience and community. Superintendent Dr. Alan Harris and Principal Mike Pruzan praised the class for overcoming pandemic challenges. Highlights included musical performances by the Eagle Band and Choir, a slideshow of memories, and the traditional cap toss. The event marked the end of an era for many seniors heading to colleges, trade schools, or military service.
Washington State launches statewide law enforcement use-of-force database
On June 3, 2025, the Washington State Patrol and Criminal Justice Training Commission launched a public statewide use-of-force database as mandated by SB 5078 (2021). The portal aggregates anonymized data from over 200 agencies, including incidents involving firearms, tasers, or physical force. It allows searches by agency, date, and type, with dashboards showing trends. The tool promotes transparency and accountability. Initial data covers 2020–2024; agencies must report within 30 days. Snohomish County departments (Lynnwood, Everett, Marysville) are included. Public feedback is encouraged for improvements. (88 words)
Possession Sound boating accident leaves one dead, two injured
On June 1, 2025, a boating accident in Possession Sound near Mukilteo resulted in one fatality and two injuries. A 32-foot recreational vessel carrying five people capsized after striking a submerged object or wave at high speed. Washington State Patrol Marine Unit responded; one male passenger (age 45) was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others were transported to Harborview Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. The operator, a 38-year-old man from Everett, was arrested for suspected boating under the influence (alcohol level pending toxicology). The Coast Guard assisted with recovery and search. No other vessels were involved; the incident remains under investigation.
Lynnwood PD makes 15 arrests in retail theft crackdown
Between May 15–28, 2025, Lynnwood Police conducted a targeted operation against retail theft at Alderwood Mall and surrounding stores, resulting in 15 arrests. Charges include third-degree theft, organized retail theft, and possession of stolen property. Officers recovered over $8,500 in merchandise (clothing, electronics, cosmetics) and identified a pattern of group shoplifting involving juveniles and out-of-area suspects. The effort used enhanced patrols, store security partnerships, and surveillance footage. Chief Rick Smith stated the operation aimed to deter repeat offenders and support local businesses. All suspects were booked into Snohomish County Jail; several face felony enhancements.
13-year-old, who struck cable riding an electric bike, dies from injuries
Thirteen-year-old Emiliano “Emmy” Muñoz, a student at Explorer Middle School in Everett, died on May 5, 2025, from injuries sustained on May 2 when his electric bike struck a low-hanging metal cable in a grassy lot on 5th Avenue West. The cable, installed by a resident despite prior complaints, was barely visible and about three feet off the ground. Wearing a helmet, Emiliano suffered severe neck trauma (severed vocal cords), ran for help, then collapsed. Everett Fire responded quickly, but surgery failed, and he remained in a coma until death. The cable has been removed; Everett Police are investigating. A memorial grew at the site, and the school provided counseling. Mayor Cassie Franklin and school officials expressed condolences.
Snohomish County 911 to launch new radio system replacing outdated equipment
Snohomish County 911 launched its $72 million Radio Replacement Project on May 6, 2025, upgrading 5,000 outdated radios, 22 radio sites, and infrastructure across law enforcement and EMS agencies. The 20-year-old system suffered from poor rural coverage, inaudible signals, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and lack of manufacturer support. The new system offers noise-cancelling clarity, encryption, Wi-Fi integration, and durability for harsh conditions. Funded through a 2018 voter-approved measure (under budget by $23 million via bulk purchasing), it covers 2,196 square miles serving 844,000+ residents. Officials emphasized improved officer safety, response times, and privacy. A 15-year maintenance plan ensures long-term reliability.
Three women arrested in the same day for smuggling drugs into a state prison
On March 17, 2025, three women—Maria Linda Baltazar (32, Prosser), Laura Spracklin (36, Olympia), and McKenzi Dawn Maple (32, Cheney)—were arrested at Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla for attempting to smuggle drugs. Each faces Class B felony charges (up to 10 years and $20,000 fine). Two admitted prior deliveries. The arrests by DOC Intelligence & Investigative Units highlight efforts to block contraband, including synthetic opioids threatening rehabilitation. Additional measures include mail scanning, body scanners, and fentanyl-sniffing dogs. A separate incident the prior day involved a drug drop using an infant as cover.
Six Cyber Trucks vandalized at Tesla Lynnwood Service Center
On March 8, 2025, six Cyber Trucks were vandalized overnight at the Tesla Service Center in Lynnwood with swastikas and anti-Elon Musk messages (“f*ck Elon”) in orange spray paint. The incident targeted three lot-owned and two personally owned vehicles, including one belonging to a gay Jewish resident from Lake Stevens. Estimated damages: $5,000–$10,000. Lynnwood Police classified it as malicious mischief (Class B felony). Tesla is covering repairs and pursuing charges. The vandalism coincided with national “Tesla Takedown” protests and other incidents (e.g., four Cyber Trucks set on fire in Seattle the same day). No suspects identified; investigation ongoing.
15-y/o and 13-y/o arrested in shooting incident near Alderwood Mall
On February 25, 2025, a 15-year-old boy accidentally shot himself in the groin near Alderwood Mall (4000 block of Alderwood Mall Blvd) when a firearm tucked in his waistband discharged around 1 p.m. In panic, he threw it to his 13-year-old companion, causing a second shot (no additional injuries). The boys fled; the injured teen collapsed near JR Furniture and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in stable condition. Police arrested the 13-year-old at a nearby Target for illegal firearm possession. The 15-year-old had an outstanding felony warrant for robbery and attempted to flee custody at the hospital. Investigation ongoing.
Drunken Alderwood brawl leads to arrest of felon with unlawful gun and stolen cars
On May 3, 2025, a drunken brawl outside Alderwood Mall escalated when a shoplifter confronted by security turned aggressive. Lynnwood Police responded, discovering the suspect had a key fob for a nearby stolen BMW. A search warrant revealed stolen merchandise, theft tools, a stolen 7.62×51 rifle, and body armor. The mid-30s male suspect had multiple King County felony warrants (unlawful firearm possession, stolen vehicle). Additional charges include possession of stolen vehicle/firearm/property, vehicle theft tools, controlled substance, and false statements. The firearm was recovered; the vehicle returned to its owner. Officers praised for thorough investigation.
Author: Kienan Briscoe
