Human trafficking continues to be a thorn in societies across the globe. In the US, the city of Houston has been identified as leading in the number of human trafficking cases. The 2019 statistics by the National Human Trafficking Hotline indicate that there was a total of 1,080 cases.
Despite the harrowing revelation, something is being done to combat this. Houston human trafficking attorneys are taking the fight to those involved or profiting from this illicit trade. If you have been a victim or know someone who has suffered as a result of this act, you have the option of taking legal action against the perpetrators.
What’s Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a criminal activity that involves stealing freedom from an individual for profit. In most cases, criminals use tricks, threats of physical harm, or fraud to force people into illegal activities.
This multi-billion-dollar criminal industry enslaves millions of people each year - with a majority of the victims being female, typically young.
Forms Of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking, modern-day slavery, or trafficking in persons are interchangeable terms that fall under one umbrella. Generally speaking, this act falls under two broad categories - sex and labor trafficking.
This is when an individual is forced or coerced into participating in sexual acts like prostitution. Sexual exploitation occurs in various settings but is not limited to streets, private homes, brothels, strip clubs, and massage parlors.
This refers to all forms of work extended from any individual under threat of physical force, for which the individual hasn’t voluntarily offered himself/herself. This includes domestic service, forced child labor, child soldiers, debt bondage, etc.
How To Spot Potential Cases Of Human Trafficking
Nearly anyone can spot potential human trafficking situations. Despite hiding the victims away from prying eyes most of the time, in some instances, they are usually right in front of our eyes. A great example would be construction sites, farms, hotels, massage and nail salons, elderly homes, etc.
All you have to do is look at the tell-tale signs of this illegal activity. Here is a short list, but keep in mind that this isn’t exhaustive.
- Underaged prostitutes
- Poor living conditions
- Multiple individuals cramped into a small space
- When you ask something, you get a scripted answer
- Employers withholding individual’s identity documents like IDs and passports
- Submissive
- Fearful
- Visible signs of physical abuse
- Underpaid or lack of paid dues
What Can You Do When You Spot Potential Cases
If you know or suspect cases involving human trafficking, you need to contact the authorities immediately. By no means, you should attempt to confront the perpetrators.
Additionally, you could connect the victim with reputable Houston human trafficking attorneys to take legal action against the criminals.
What Has The Government Done
The Federal government and the City of Houston are doing their best to combat the spread of human trafficking. Through the Houston Human Trafficking website, individuals can learn more about this and empower themselves to help end modern-day slavery in Houston.
On January 29, 2020, Houston’s mayor - Sylvester Turner, announced the launch of a six-month pilot program that focuses on increasing human trafficking victim identification in homeless youth.
Houston human trafficking attorneys protect the rights of victims. They help survivors attain rightful compensation from their traffickers and beneficiaries by bringing charges against them. If you know someone or have experienced an act of human trafficking, reach out, and seek legal aid.
