BELLEVUE, Wash. - A recent operation by detectives led to the arrest of a man in Maple Valley on sex trafficking charges, while also rescuing a 15-year-old victim allegedly coerced into sexual activities with clients.
Bellevue Police Department (BPD) responded to a disturbance near NE 8th St. and 112th Ave. NE on July 1, where they rescued the girl. The investigation revealed she had been under the control of 42-year-old Tony Eldridge, who allegedly exploited her in a Maple Valley 'brothel'. Eldridge stands accused of physically and sexually abusing her and profiting from her exploitation.
The victim disclosed that Eldridge was aware of her age, and she was initially introduced to sex work by a 28-year-old woman connected through her mother. Multiple instances of abuse were recounted. Three additional victims were discovered.
After a standoff, BPD officers arrested Eldridge on August 3 at his home, charging him with human trafficking, promoting commercial sexual abuse of a minor, rape of a child, and promoting prostitution. Held on a $500,000 bail, Eldridge is also a registered sex offender in Oregon and King County. His arraignment is set for August 17.