Does physical violence have to be involved in human trafficking cases?
No. Under the federal law, an individual who uses physical or psychological violence to force someone into a labor or sex industry is considered a human trafficker. Therefore, while some victims experience beatings, rape, and other forms of physical violence, many victims are controlled by traffickers through psychological means, such as threats of violence, manipulation, and lies. In many cases, traffickers use a combination of direct violence and mental abuse. It is important to note that for minors force, fraud, or coercion are not required elements of the crime, meaning that anyone under the age of 18 in the commercial sex industry is a sex trafficking victim.
Related Questions
- My daughter experienced cases of verbal violence, physical and sexual abuse at her father’s. Are there other resources than the Director of Youth Protection to come to her assistance?
- Considering the clandestine nature of human trafficking, how does law enforcement learn of potential cases to investigate?
- Does physical violence have to be involved in human trafficking cases?
