Kulwinder Saroya Sentenced for Drug Ring Operation, Tukwila WA, 2023

TUKWILA, WA – The gritty streets of Tukwila were hit hard by a drug epidemic that authorities say was fueled by one man’s greed. Today, KULWINDER SAROYA, 42, from SeaTac, Washington, faced the music for his role in a criminal operation that turned motels into fronts for a flourishing drug trade.

Saroia and his brother, Jaspal Singh, were sentenced to substantial penalties today after being caught running drug-infested motels. The brothers admitted they operated both the Travelers Choice Motel and Great Bear Motor Inn, reaping profits from the illegal activities that took place within their walls.

US Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced the sentencing, noting that Saroya’s crime struck at the heart of Tukwila’s community, a place where residents had been living in fear due to the brothers’ operation. “Since we shut these motels, the violent crime rate in the area was cut nearly in half,” said Durkan. “This case shows we will use all tools to protect the public and hold people accountable.”

The harsh consequences for Saroya included a year behind bars, three years of supervised release, and substantial economic loss totaling over $4.5 million. This sum includes the forfeiture of the two motels, the family home, more than $265,000 from bank accounts, and a 2007 Mercedes Benz.

City Administrator David Cline echoed Durkan’s sentiments, saying, “It’s a new day for Tukwila. We’ve made a commitment to provide safety in our community and are now closer to revitalization of the heart of the neighborhood.”

The collaboration of law enforcement agencies resulted in the seizure of three motels, arrests, and prosecution of defendants. The investigation, led by the ATF and Tukwila Police Department, documented the brothers’ role in directing drug transactions and providing rooms for sex workers. Saroya and Singh are the first to be sentenced, with a third defendant, Lakhvir Pawar, 41, scheduled for sentencing in April.