Mount Lake Terrace assault victim voices frustration over police mishandling of case

During the Mountlake Terrace City Council Work/Study Session on June 26, 2025, a poignant and troubling account was shared regarding the handling of a sexual assault case by the Mountlake Terrace Police Department. The victim, who spoke at the meeting, detailed a series of failures in the police response that have left her feeling unsupported and marginalized.

The victim recounted her experience of reporting the assault in January, providing substantial evidence including video footage and witness statements. Despite following the recommended procedures, she faced a lack of communication and indifference from the police. After three months, she learned that her case had been deemed inactive without any meaningful investigation. The detective assigned to her case was described as dismissive, failing to conduct a thorough inquiry or even interview her properly.

In her testimony, the victim expressed feelings of shame and doubt, questioning the validity of her experience due to the police's lack of action. After reaching out to higher authorities within the department, she was informed that her complaint would be submitted on her behalf, without her input. This led to further frustration as she felt her voice was not being heard in a process that should have been about her experience.

The victim's case was eventually reopened, but she highlighted the significant delays that had already compromised the integrity of the investigation, including lost evidence and disengaged witnesses. Although a new detective has shown more compassion, the victim emphasized that the damage from the initial mishandling remains.

The council meeting served as a platform for the victim to advocate for accountability and reform within the police department. Her experience raises critical questions about the treatment of sexual assault cases and the importance of proper investigative procedures. The council's response to her testimony and the steps they will take to address these concerns remain to be seen, but the incident underscores the need for systemic changes to ensure that victims are treated with the respect and seriousness they deserve.

As the city grapples with these issues, the community is left to ponder the implications of this case on public trust in law enforcement and the broader conversation about victim support and police accountability.