SPD Declares Aurora Avenue Motel A Chronic Nuisance

Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes recently declared the Oaktree Motel on Aurora Avenue North a chronic nuisance property, citing what the department claims are repeated incidents of violence, drug activity, and human trafficking. Last week, the City of Seattle sent an official declaration letter to Madilyn Investments, owner of the 39-room motel at 8900 Aurora Avenue North, requiring the owner to address what officials claim are ongoing public safety hazards within seven days or face potential legal action.

“Time’s up for irresponsible owners who turn a blind eye to criminal activity and human suffering,” Barnes said. “For much of the past year, this motel owner has ignored requests to improve public safety at the Oaktree, putting the lives of employees, residents, visitors, passersby, and vulnerable populations in danger. By filing this chronic nuisance order we can improve public safety along the Aurora North corridor.”

According to SPD, officers have visited the motel 43 times in 2025. Two weeks ago, officers arrested a convicted human trafficker at the location. Police claim the suspect stated that his girlfriend is the motel’s manager. Following the arrest, SPD alleges that both the manager and the owner refused to cooperate with investigators.

Under city law, Madilyn Investments has seven days from receipt of the declaration to respond. Failure to comply could lead to civil litigation and fines, according to the Seattle City Attorney’s Office.

“I thoroughly support Chief Barnes and his decision to declare this a chronic nuisance property,” said Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison. “I think it’s crucial that we use every available strategy to stop the illegal drug activity, the use of weapons, and—most urgently—prostitution and human trafficking.”

Police claim they first instructed the motel’s ownership in February to take steps to reduce criminal activity. While officials say 911 calls temporarily declined, they claim that a sharp increase in June is what prompted Barnes to file the nuisance order.

This chronic nuisance declaration is part of what SPD describes as a broader crackdown on crime along Aurora Avenue North, which has long been associated with prostitution and alleged human trafficking. Online videos showing sex workers in the area have drawn millions of views in recent years, increasing scrutiny of the corridor.

In the past five years, SPD has declared three other motels along Aurora as chronic nuisances, including one later sold to a commercial developer.

SPD cited several recent incidents allegedly associated with the Oaktree Motel as part of their declaration, including a July 14 arrest that recovered oxycontin and cash, a June 29 shooting investigation, multiple assaults linked to sex trafficking, and several overdose deaths dating back to September 2024.

“This order is not just about one property,” Barnes said. “It’s part of a sustained effort to disrupt crime and protect those most at risk of exploitation.”