A 22-year-old man, Lorenzo Kai Smith, is facing serious accusations in connection with attacks on two bikini baristas along Evergreen Way in Everett. The incidents occurred last week, with the first taking place on Sunday, April 6th at Lady Bug Espresso. During the initial attack, the suspect reportedly forced his way into the establishment, climbed onto the barista, and began assaulting her. The victim managed to fend off her attacker, who subsequently fled the scene. In a court appearance, the barista expressed the traumatic impact of the event, highlighting the fear and shock she experienced.
Just three days later, a second incident was reported at Steamy Shots Espresso. In this case, a man allegedly entered through a window and seized another bikini barista, prompting her and a co-worker to scream. Once again, the assailant escaped. Images of the suspect, later identified as Lorenzo Kai Smith, were disseminated by the Everett Police Department, leading to Smith’s eventual surrender last Friday.
On Monday, the court found probable cause to charge Smith with multiple offenses, including assault with sexual motivation, burglary, and trespassing. His bail has been set at $350,000. Judge Jennifer Millet underscored the severity of the offenses, noting the confined spaces where the incidents occurred, how entry was gained, and evidence suggesting Smith surveilled the area prior to acting. Consequently, Smith has been prohibited from contacting the victims or approaching any espresso-coffee stands in the county.
Additionally, Smith has a previous arrest record from 2021, related to a separate incident where he allegedly exposed himself to a 16-year-old girl in Lynnwood. However, that particular case was dismissed.
Community Impact
The alleged attacks on the baristas have generated concern within the local community, particularly among those employed in similar roles. The nature of these incidents highlights vulnerabilities faced by individuals working in small, isolated environments, leading to heightened awareness and calls for improved safety measures. Coffee stand owners and employees may consider additional security protocols, such as installing surveillance cameras or employing security personnel during late hours, to deter potential threats.
The broader community might feel an increased need for vigilance, as these events underline potential safety risks in everyday settings. This could prompt discussions on the importance of community support and neighborhood watch programs to enhance overall security. Moreover, the case draws attention to the necessity of a robust legal framework to adequately address and prevent such incidents, ensuring that justice is served and victims are protected.