Bellingham Woman Arrested in Child Sex Assault Investigation

The 42-year-old woman allegedly booked hotel rooms for a male suspect in exchange for methamphetamine.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A 42-year-old Bellingham woman has been arrested in connection with a child sex assault investigation. Authorities say she received methamphetamine in exchange for procuring at least three hotel reservations for a 46-year-old male suspect, who is accused of sexually assaulting a child and providing drugs to minors. The primary suspect has been incarcerated since his arrest in 2024, while the woman was taken into custody on February 1, 2026.

Why it matters

This case highlights the disturbing intersection of child sexual abuse, drug use, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. It underscores the need for vigilance and stronger safeguards to protect minors from predatory behavior.

The details

According to investigators, the sexual assaults occurred in hotel rooms over a three-week period, which were booked by the child's female relative. The 42-year-old Bellingham woman is accused of receiving methamphetamine in exchange for procuring at least three of these hotel reservations for the male suspect.

  • The primary male suspect was arrested in October 2024.
  • The 42-year-old Bellingham woman was taken into custody on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

The players

Bellingham Police Lt. Claudia Murphy

A law enforcement official who provided details about the investigation.

46-year-old male suspect

The primary suspect accused of sexually assaulting a child and providing methamphetamine to minors.

42-year-old Bellingham woman

The woman arrested in connection with the investigation for allegedly booking hotel rooms for the male suspect in exchange for methamphetamine.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on the 42-year-old woman's bail status at a hearing on February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This disturbing case highlights the need for stronger protections and support services for victims of child sexual abuse and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. It underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and the community to identify and address these types of predatory behaviors.