2012 Trafficking In Persons Final Report.pdf - NCJTC Home

Trafficking in Persons symposium
Objective 2: Discuss barriers to identifying offenders
Finding: The biggest barrier is that no simple profile exists for traffickers as their characteristics and behaviors
are always evolving, developing, and changing. Based on attendees' discussions it was agreed that
most observable characteristics are situational and cultural specific. Traffickers operating in urban cities
will differ greatly from those found in rural communities. Offenders will also vary depending on their ethnic
background and state/country of origin. It is therefore better to have a detailed inventory of community
situations so that instead of looking for specific behaviors, officials can monitor for questionable situations
and circumstances. Examples of situational clues include a single person that has a large amount of foot
traffic coming in and out of their home, someone in possession of multiple hotel room keys, and someone
with numerous possessions or luggage while their younger companion has very little.
Goal 5: Determine best practices in victim services and uncover barriers to successful restoration.
Objective 1: Discuss trafficking interventions
Findings: Victims need a multi-dimensional treatment approach. There is no specific standard format that
can be established due to the varied needs of victims. Participants noted the importance of pre-planning
and training. Law enforcement and service providers must develop strong relationships/partnerships. All
stakeholders should be part of the planning process and clearly identify the roles and responsibilities of
each group. Victim advocates and non-governmental organizations should be properly vetted before being
brought into the process. More research is needed on effective anti-trafficking interventions and services
for victims and survivors.
Objective 2: Explore the benefits and consequences of decriminalization
Finding: Decriminalization reduces societal stigma, keeps prostitution charges off the victim’s record, and
allows access to an unlimited number of volunteer and employment opportunities. On the other hand, if
prostitution was decriminalized, law enforcement would not be able to protect the victim. The juvenile
court would also not become involved and would thus be unable to offer services to help the trafficked
victim. Leaving prostitution classified as a crime enables criminal justice officials to prosecute traffickers
and reduce victimization. Victims also have access to a variety of resources such as clothing, food, housing,
medical services, and legal representation. However, criminalization also results in victim blaming,
victims having a record, and limited employment/volunteer opportunities. Survivors unanimously favored
decriminalization of juvenile prostitution. However, decriminalization should be combined with new policies
that provide access to services for victims that would normally only be available through the justice
system.
Objective 3: Discuss and evaluate obstacles to placement after rescue
Finding: Participants indicated that there was generally a lack of resources, knowledge, and political will
regarding making placement decisions. There are also a limited number of appropriate facilities with
24