Bellevue Police detectives have arrested a man following an investigation into the alleged sexual exploitation and trafficking of a missing juvenile.
In March of this year, Bellevue Police patrol officers responded to an apartment unit in downtown Bellevue for a report of a disturbance. During the investigation, officers arrested 24-year-old Ray Lavoll of Bellevue on domestic violence-related charges. After the arrest, investigators identified the female victim as a 14-year-old juvenile who had been reported missing from Tacoma, Washington.
As Bellevue detectives continued to investigate the case, evidence led them to believe the juvenile had been sexually exploited and trafficked by Lavoll in both the City of Bellevue and along Aurora Avenue in Seattle.
On May 29, 2026, detectives arrested Lavoll while serving a search warrant at his apartment. During the subsequent search, investigators seized approximately $8,000 in U.S. currency concealed within the unit. Detectives also located evidence consistent with promoting prostitution, as well as suspected narcotics.
Lavoll was booked into the King County Jail for investigation of Human Trafficking in the Second Degree, Promoting Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and Rape of a Child in the Third Degree, all felonies.
As part of the ongoing investigation, detectives executed a search warrant on Lavoll’s vehicle on June 2, 2026. During the search, investigators recovered a loaded semi-automatic pistol, additional ammunition, and additional suspected narcotics packaged in a manner consistent with sales and distribution.
Lavoll is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
“This case reflects the dedication of our officers and detectives in identifying and protecting vulnerable victims while holding offenders accountable,” said Bellevue Police Chief Wendell Shirley. “Human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children are among the most heinous crimes we investigate, and remain committed to working with our partners to identify victims, support their recovery, and pursue those who prey upon them.”
Anyone who is a victim of sexual exploitation, or who has information about someone who may be a victim, is encouraged to contact the Bellevue Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit at ViceHT@bellevuewa.gov.
BPD Case #2026-00016662
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