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1. Department of Defense Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Law Enforcement Intervention & Investigations Training Module Trafficking in Persons (TIP) has been a problem, almost from the very beginning of time people have been on this earth. There are many dark examples in the history of the world and the history of the United States of America. Some may believe that the history of slavery and forced servitude are a thing of the past. Unfortunately, these heinous crimes are committed on a daily basis in the United States and abroad. Awareness of this ongoing problem is the beginning. Action must follow awareness. This presentation has been designed for DoD law enforcement personnel to understand what TIP is, the difference between TIP and smuggling, and provide strategies on combating, intervening, and investigating these despicable crimes. As you will see most trafficking victims will never report their slavery and are extremely afraid and distrustful of law enforcement. Dont be fooled that this doesnt happen in DoD because it does. Regrettably some members of the Armed Forces, family members, DoD civilians, contractors, and subcontractors participate in activities that directly and indirectly have an impact on promulgating TIP. It is your responsibility as a DoD law enforcement official to understand the vast array of the problem and develop proactive ways to properly identify, intervene, investigate, and stop the horrible legacy slavery and forced servitude. Trafficking in Persons (TIP) has been a problem, almost from the very beginning of time people have been on this earth. There are many dark examples in the history of the world and the history of the United States of America. Some may believe that the history of slavery and forced servitude are a thing of the past. Unfortunately, these heinous crimes are committed on a daily basis in the United States and abroad. Awareness of this ongoing problem is the beginning. Action must follow awareness. This presentation has been designed for DoD law enforcement personnel to understand what TIP is, the difference between TIP and smuggling, and provide strategies on combating, intervening, and investigating these despicable crimes. As you will see most trafficking victims will never report their slavery and are extremely afraid and distrustful of law enforcement. Dont be fooled that this doesnt happen in DoD because it does. Regrettably some members of the Armed Forces, family members, DoD civilians, contractors, and subcontractors participate in activities that directly and indirectly have an impact on promulgating TIP. It is your responsibility as a DoD law enforcement official to understand the vast array of the problem and develop proactive ways to properly identify, intervene, investigate, and stop the horrible legacy slavery and forced servitude.
2. As law enforcement officials enforcing the U.S. Constitute is our sacred duty. As DoD law enforcement law enforcement officials this sacred duty is compounded by our additional duty to defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. Individuals who traffic in human beings whether U.S. citizens or not, are enemies of our constitution. It is imperative that we all understand what trafficking in persons is, who it effects, how to identify it, how to intervene and investigate it, and how to stop it.As law enforcement officials enforcing the U.S. Constitute is our sacred duty. As DoD law enforcement law enforcement officials this sacred duty is compounded by our additional duty to defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. Individuals who traffic in human beings whether U.S. citizens or not, are enemies of our constitution. It is imperative that we all understand what trafficking in persons is, who it effects, how to identify it, how to intervene and investigate it, and how to stop it.
3.
Role of DoD Law Enforcement Officers in Identifying, Intervening, Investigating, and Helping
Victims of Human Trafficking
Beyond the Obvious I'm going to begin this presentation with a story
A young woman from Guatemala was kidnapped and brought to Florida by a Guatemalan native. He forced the girl to work long, grueling days in tomato fields and then forced her to have sex with him at night. Upon discovering the two together, his wife became enraged. The man, in turn, physically assaulted his wife, who then called the police. Local law enforcement initially treated the case as a domestic violence situation, but wondered why a young, non-English-speaking woman was cowering in a corner of the room. Suspecting that she could be a trafficking victim, they took her to a local domestic violence shelter.
The man is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence for kidnapping, immigration violations, slavery and conspiracy to manufacture false documents. The young woman became one of the first trafficking victims to be granted a T visa through the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, allowing her to stay in the United States. You will learn more about this law and how it helps trafficking victims later on in this presentation.
What would have happened to the young Guatemalan woman had the police not looked beneath the surface of this situation that may have appeared to be a typical case of domestic violence?
I'm going to begin this presentation with a story
A young woman from Guatemala was kidnapped and brought to Florida by a Guatemalan native. He forced the girl to work long, grueling days in tomato fields and then forced her to have sex with him at night. Upon discovering the two together, his wife became enraged. The man, in turn, physically assaulted his wife, who then called the police. Local law enforcement initially treated the case as a domestic violence situation, but wondered why a young, non-English-speaking woman was cowering in a corner of the room. Suspecting that she could be a trafficking victim, they took her to a local domestic violence shelter.
The man is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence for kidnapping, immigration violations, slavery and conspiracy to manufacture false documents. The young woman became one of the first trafficking victims to be granted a T visa through the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, allowing her to stay in the United States. You will learn more about this law and how it helps trafficking victims later on in this presentation.
What would have happened to the young Guatemalan woman had the police not looked beneath the surface of this situation that may have appeared to be a typical case of domestic violence?
4. Presentation Overview Understanding human trafficking
Identifying crime of human trafficking
Communicating with victims of human trafficking
Roles and responsibilities of DoD law enforcement
Evidence of success
The story I just shared was important because it brings to life the harsh realities of human trafficking, regarded by many today as modern-day slavery. Human trafficking is the exploitation of a person for forced sex or labor. As law enforcement officers, its important for you to understand what human trafficking is, and for you to be able to distinguish a victim of trafficking from a criminal because the next [prostitute, stripper, migrant worker, illegal immigrant] you bust may actually be a victim of human trafficking not a criminal.
Today, I hope you walk away from this presentation with an understanding of why your role as law enforcement officers is critical in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking. This presentation should provide you with:
An overview of human trafficking including the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.
We will discuss strategies for identifying the crime of human trafficking and how to identify victims and manage them as witnesses.
Identify TIP intervention and investigation strategies.
We will discuss your role as local law enforcement officers and the importance your role plays in combating human trafficking.The story I just shared was important because it brings to life the harsh realities of human trafficking, regarded by many today as modern-day slavery. Human trafficking is the exploitation of a person for forced sex or labor. As law enforcement officers, its important for you to understand what human trafficking is, and for you to be able to distinguish a victim of trafficking from a criminal because the next [prostitute, stripper, migrant worker, illegal immigrant] you bust may actually be a victim of human trafficking not a criminal.
Today, I hope you walk away from this presentation with an understanding of why your role as law enforcement officers is critical in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking. This presentation should provide you with:
An overview of human trafficking including the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.
We will discuss strategies for identifying the crime of human trafficking and how to identify victims and manage them as witnesses.
Identify TIP intervention and investigation strategies.
We will discuss your role as local law enforcement officers and the importance your role plays in combating human trafficking.
5. Human Trafficking: What Is It? Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery
Victims of trafficking exploited for commercial sex or labor purposes
Traffickers use force, fraud or coercion to achieve exploitation
After drug dealing, human trafficking is tied with the illegal arms trade as the second largest criminal industry in the world, and it is the fastest growing.
Human trafficking is a devastating human rights violation that takes place not only internationally, but also here in the United States. It is, indeed, a form of modern-day slavery.
Traffickers use force, fraud or coercion to enslave their victims into situations involving sexual exploitation or forced labor.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world today, often operated by organized crime syndicates.
Human trafficking is a devastating human rights violation that takes place not only internationally, but also here in the United States. It is, indeed, a form of modern-day slavery.
Traffickers use force, fraud or coercion to enslave their victims into situations involving sexual exploitation or forced labor.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world today, often operated by organized crime syndicates.
6. Human Trafficking: What Is It? Sex Trafficking: Commercial sex act induced by force, fraud or coercion, or in which person performing the act is under age 18.
Victims can be found working in massage parlors, brothels, strip clubs, escort services
Labor Trafficking: Using force, fraud or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, obtain or employ a person for labor or services in involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage or slavery
Victims can be found in domestic situations as nannies or maids, sweatshop factories, janitorial jobs, construction sites, farm work, restaurants, panhandling
Crime of trafficking occurs with the exploitation of the victim.
The physical movement of the victim is not a requisite.
The TVPA protects both U.S. citizens and non-citizens.
There are primarily two types of human trafficking: Sex Trafficking and Labor Trafficking.
Sex trafficking operations occur in highly visible venues such as street prostitution, as well as more underground locations such as closed-brothel systems that operate out of residential homes.
Sex trafficking also takes place in a variety of public and private locations such as massage parlors, spas, strip clubs and other fronts for prostitution. Victims may start off dancing or stripping in clubs and are often coerced into more exploitative situations of prostitution and pornography.
Forced labor occurs in various forms including domestic servitude such as nannies and maids, sweatshop factories, janitorial jobs, construction sites, farm work, restaurants and panhandling.
It is important to clarify that the crime of trafficking actually occurs when the victim is exploited for sex or forced labor not when the victim is moved from one location to another.
As law enforcement officers, you may come in contact with victims of sex or labor trafficking but may mistake them as willing participants and either arrest them or see no reason to intervene. The purpose of this presentation is to encourage you to look beneath the surface when encountering these types of crimes and to ask yourselves if these are actually victims forced into these situations rather than criminals.
There are primarily two types of human trafficking: Sex Trafficking and Labor Trafficking.
Sex trafficking operations occur in highly visible venues such as street prostitution, as well as more underground locations such as closed-brothel systems that operate out of residential homes.
Sex trafficking also takes place in a variety of public and private locations such as massage parlors, spas, strip clubs and other fronts for prostitution. Victims may start off dancing or stripping in clubs and are often coerced into more exploitative situations of prostitution and pornography.
Forced labor occurs in various forms including domestic servitude such as nannies and maids, sweatshop factories, janitorial jobs, construction sites, farm work, restaurants and panhandling.
It is important to clarify that the crime of trafficking actually occurs when the victim is exploited for sex or forced labor not when the victim is moved from one location to another.
As law enforcement officers, you may come in contact with victims of sex or labor trafficking but may mistake them as willing participants and either arrest them or see no reason to intervene. The purpose of this presentation is to encourage you to look beneath the surface when encountering these types of crimes and to ask yourselves if these are actually victims forced into these situations rather than criminals.
7. Trafficking vs. Smuggling Is not voluntary
Entails exploitation of a person
Need not entail physical movement of a person
Can occur domestically
Is a crime against the right of each person to be free from involuntary servitude Is voluntary individual typically contracts to be taken across a border
Ends after border crossing
Fees are usually paid in advance or upon arrival
Is always international in nature
Is a crime against the nations sovereignty Under U.S. Law, once a person has been held in servitude, a persons status as a trafficking victim supersedes all other smuggling or immigration questions and affords them legal protections and social services.
Law enforcement must understand the difference between trafficking and smuggling. If we dont understand this difference it is very easy to treat legitimate trafficking victims as criminals thereby increasing their victimization.
Trafficking in human beings differs from people smuggling because the
intention of the trafficker is to exploit the victim after the illegal entry has
been accomplished - during the course of a long term, exploitative and
coercive relationship, whereas, in the vast majority of cases, the
smugglers relationship with the victim normally concludes once the illegal
entry has been achieved.
Under U.S. Law, once a person has been held in servitude, a persons status as a trafficking victim supersedes all other smuggling or immigration questions and affords them legal protections and social services.
Law enforcement must understand the difference between trafficking and smuggling. If we dont understand this difference it is very easy to treat legitimate trafficking victims as criminals thereby increasing their victimization.
Trafficking in human beings differs from people smuggling because the
intention of the trafficker is to exploit the victim after the illegal entry has
been accomplished - during the course of a long term, exploitative and
coercive relationship, whereas, in the vast majority of cases, the
smugglers relationship with the victim normally concludes once the illegal
entry has been achieved.
8. TIP Examples Zambian girls were trafficked to Ireland for commercial sexual exploitation
Filipina women were trafficked to Cote dIvoire for commercial sexual exploitation
Vietnamese children were trafficked to the United Kingdom for forced involvement in drug smuggling
Thai men were trafficked to the United States for labor exploitation and debt bondage
Dominican women were trafficked to Montenegro for commercial sexual exploitation
A Kenyan woman was trafficked to Mexico for commercial sexual exploitation
Chinese women were trafficked to Afghanistan for commercial sexual exploitation
Russian students were trafficked to the United States for forced labor, selling ice cream Here are a few examples of trafficking in persons these are all examples from just one year (2006).
There are certainly many more ways for humans to be trafficked. There is no end to the imagination behind criminal behaviors.
As you can see trafficking is not limited to females males are trafficked as well.Here are a few examples of trafficking in persons these are all examples from just one year (2006).
There are certainly many more ways for humans to be trafficked. There is no end to the imagination behind criminal behaviors.
As you can see trafficking is not limited to females males are trafficked as well.
9. Some real-life examples of prostitution and trafficking in persons.
Photos are from MSNBC News Report: Sex Slaves- Trade in Drugs, Guns and Women. Some real-life examples of prostitution and trafficking in persons.
Photos are from MSNBC News Report: Sex Slaves- Trade in Drugs, Guns and Women.
10. Myths Associated with Human Trafficking
Myth #1:
All Prostitutes
Are Willing Participants
Understanding the mindset of human trafficking victims, its easy to see why there are several myths or misconceptions associated with human trafficking. As law enforcement officers, its important for you to be aware of these myths and to look beyond them to see the issue of human trafficking to help expose the real criminals, the traffickers.
Although prostitution is probably the most common type of crime in which you may encounter victims of trafficking, there is an overall misconception that all prostitutes are willing participants, or even broader, that all sex trade participants are prostitutes. That as participants they are proactively involved in the sex trade on their own free will. While this may in fact be the case for some, it often times is not the case for victims of human trafficking, who are forced or coerced into the sex trade by traffickers.
Victims of trafficking may be perceived as prostitutes because they often do not initially self-identify as victims. However, if you look beneath the surface of someone you may think is a typical prostitute, you may find an innocent victim in need of help and protection.
Understanding the mindset of human trafficking victims, its easy to see why there are several myths or misconceptions associated with human trafficking. As law enforcement officers, its important for you to be aware of these myths and to look beyond them to see the issue of human trafficking to help expose the real criminals, the traffickers.
Although prostitution is probably the most common type of crime in which you may encounter victims of trafficking, there is an overall misconception that all prostitutes are willing participants, or even broader, that all sex trade participants are prostitutes. That as participants they are proactively involved in the sex trade on their own free will. While this may in fact be the case for some, it often times is not the case for victims of human trafficking, who are forced or coerced into the sex trade by traffickers.
Victims of trafficking may be perceived as prostitutes because they often do not initially self-identify as victims. However, if you look beneath the surface of someone you may think is a typical prostitute, you may find an innocent victim in need of help and protection.
11. Prostitutes: Who Are They? Traffickers exploit impoverished and vulnerable individuals seeking a better life. Most victims are desperate for a better way of life.
Traffickers seek young, disease free women, teens or young children for the sex trade.
The low status of women and girls in some societies contributes to the growing trafficking industry- since females lives are not as highly valued as those of men and boys.
Human cargo is far easier to move illegally across borders than guns or drugs.
Selling humans is BIG business. Traffickers exploit impoverished and vulnerable individuals seeking a better life. Most victims are desperate for a better way of life.
Traffickers seek young, disease free women, teens or young children for the sex trade.
The low status of women and girls in some societies contributes to the growing trafficking industry- since females lives are not as highly valued as those of men and boys.
Human cargo is far easier to move illegally across borders than guns or drugs.
Selling humans is BIG business.
12. What Really Happens to Most Prostitutes? This is what really happens to MOST prostitutes.
Every single prostitute in the world faces at least ONE- and many times MULTIPLE dangers you see listed here.
Very few prostitutes who escape the sex trade- will escape from the mental or physical scars of one of these conditions.
Traffickers and pimps may also hold a prostitutes child prisoner until her debt is paid. This is what really happens to MOST prostitutes.
Every single prostitute in the world faces at least ONE- and many times MULTIPLE dangers you see listed here.
Very few prostitutes who escape the sex trade- will escape from the mental or physical scars of one of these conditions.
Traffickers and pimps may also hold a prostitutes child prisoner until her debt is paid.
13. Philosophy of a Trafficker/Pimp How would you like to face this type of a job interview?
Prostitutes are essentially slaves to traffickers and pimps.
If they disobey at all, talk back, keep money from the pimp, or try to escape- they are beaten severely.
Dont kid yourself. You can bet that sweet Mamasan in the bar- has an enforcer close by or readily available to keep her juicy girls in line and making money. How would you like to face this type of a job interview?
Prostitutes are essentially slaves to traffickers and pimps.
If they disobey at all, talk back, keep money from the pimp, or try to escape- they are beaten severely.
Dont kid yourself. You can bet that sweet Mamasan in the bar- has an enforcer close by or readily available to keep her juicy girls in line and making money.
14. Research confirms a direct link between Prostitution and Human Trafficking. In fact, prostitution and its related activities, including pimping, pandering, and patronizing or maintaining brothels, contribute to trafficking in persons by serving as a front behind which traffickers for sexual exploitation operate. A Swedish government study revealed that much of the vast profits generated by the global prostitution industry go directly into the pockets of human traffickers. Research confirms a direct link between Prostitution and Human Trafficking. In fact, prostitution and its related activities, including pimping, pandering, and patronizing or maintaining brothels, contribute to trafficking in persons by serving as a front behind which traffickers for sexual exploitation operate. A Swedish government study revealed that much of the vast profits generated by the global prostitution industry go directly into the pockets of human traffickers.
15. Myths Associated with Human Trafficking
Myth #2:
All Immigrants Smuggled into the United States Enter Willingly
There are significant differences between victims of human trafficking and migrants who are smuggled into the United States. Again, you may be in a situation where you arrest someone on illegal immigration charges because someone cannot produce the proper documentation. Dont make the assumption that this person was willingly smuggled into the United States illegally and is, therefore, a criminal. Its important for you to look beneath the surface of that person because:
Victims of human trafficking are coerced or fraudulently induced into trafficking while smuggling cases include those who freely and knowingly consent.
Victims of human trafficking are continuously exploited for labor or commercial sex, while the act of smuggling ends when the migrants arrive at the intended destination.
Movement from place to place is not a requisite to the crime of trafficking. For example, victims can be trafficked even if they are not transported from country to country. In contrast, human smuggling involves the illegal transport of persons across international borders.
Some victims of human trafficking travel willingly and legally to the United States with the proper documentation. However, once they come into contact with their trafficker or employer, their legal documents are usually taken from them, never to be seen again.
There are significant differences between victims of human trafficking and migrants who are smuggled into the United States. Again, you may be in a situation where you arrest someone on illegal immigration charges because someone cannot produce the proper documentation. Dont make the assumption that this person was willingly smuggled into the United States illegally and is, therefore, a criminal. Its important for you to look beneath the surface of that person because:
Victims of human trafficking are coerced or fraudulently induced into trafficking while smuggling cases include those who freely and knowingly consent.
Victims of human trafficking are continuously exploited for labor or commercial sex, while the act of smuggling ends when the migrants arrive at the intended destination.
Movement from place to place is not a requisite to the crime of trafficking. For example, victims can be trafficked even if they are not transported from country to country. In contrast, human smuggling involves the illegal transport of persons across international borders.
Some victims of human trafficking travel willingly and legally to the United States with the proper documentation. However, once they come into contact with their trafficker or employer, their legal documents are usually taken from them, never to be seen again.
16. Myths Associated with Human Trafficking
Myth #3:
Human Trafficking Is A Crime
Prosecuted Only at Federal Level
Because there is a Federal law that prosecutes against crimes involving the trafficking of humans, it is often assumed that all crimes of human trafficking are prosecuted at the federal level, and therefore, there is no role or stake for state or local law enforcement. [We will review this law shortly, which is the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.]
During the course of committing trafficking crimes, traffickers frequently commit state crimes such as murder, kidnapping, battery, assault, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
The best way to successfully prosecute a human trafficking case is through a collaboration between local law enforcement, Federal authorities and social service providers. Of course, this isnt the only way, but the Feds and social services will eventually have to get involved anyway, so to proactively involve them is a more effective strategy.
As local law enforcement officers, you play an essential role in prosecuting traffickers. You may be the first officer to encounter potential victims of trafficking at the scene of a crime.Because there is a Federal law that prosecutes against crimes involving the trafficking of humans, it is often assumed that all crimes of human trafficking are prosecuted at the federal level, and therefore, there is no role or stake for state or local law enforcement. [We will review this law shortly, which is the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.]
During the course of committing trafficking crimes, traffickers frequently commit state crimes such as murder, kidnapping, battery, assault, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
The best way to successfully prosecute a human trafficking case is through a collaboration between local law enforcement, Federal authorities and social service providers. Of course, this isnt the only way, but the Feds and social services will eventually have to get involved anyway, so to proactively involve them is a more effective strategy.
As local law enforcement officers, you play an essential role in prosecuting traffickers. You may be the first officer to encounter potential victims of trafficking at the scene of a crime.
17. Myths Associated with Human Trafficking
Myth #4:
All Participants Involved in
Human Trafficking Are Criminals
As I just mentioned, as local law enforcement officers, you play an essential role in prosecuting traffickers. You may be the first officer to encounter potential victims of human trafficking at the scene of the crime.
Often times, persons identified/encountered in criminal investigations are assumed to be criminals (willing participants of the crime), not victims.
Victims are often arrested under the assumption they are criminals or illegal immigrants willingly smuggled into the United States.
As I mentioned earlier, its important as law enforcement officers that you look beneath the surface of those you encounter or arrest. Doing so might reveal youre actually dealing with victims of human trafficking.
You may have difficulties distinguishing between perpetrators and victims when coming upon crime scenes. Later on in the presentation, we will discuss strategies to identify victims of human trafficking and how to manage them first as victims, then as witnesses.
As I just mentioned, as local law enforcement officers, you play an essential role in prosecuting traffickers. You may be the first officer to encounter potential victims of human trafficking at the scene of the crime.
Often times, persons identified/encountered in criminal investigations are assumed to be criminals (willing participants of the crime), not victims.
Victims are often arrested under the assumption they are criminals or illegal immigrants willingly smuggled into the United States.
As I mentioned earlier, its important as law enforcement officers that you look beneath the surface of those you encounter or arrest. Doing so might reveal youre actually dealing with victims of human trafficking.
You may have difficulties distinguishing between perpetrators and victims when coming upon crime scenes. Later on in the presentation, we will discuss strategies to identify victims of human trafficking and how to manage them first as victims, then as witnesses.
18. Who Are Victims of Human Trafficking? Approximately 800,000 to 900,000 victims annually trafficked across international borders worldwide; between 14,000 and 17,000 victims trafficked into United States annually
More than half of victims trafficked into United States are children; victims are probably about equally women and men
Victims can be trafficked into the U.S. from anywhere in the world. Victims have come from, among other places, Africa, Asia, India, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Russia and Canada
Many victims in the U.S. do not speak English and are unable to communicate with service providers, police, or others who might be able to help them
Within the U.S., both citizens and non-citizens fall prey to traffickers Human trafficking is an horrific international problem, with nearly a million victims trafficked across international borders annually.
However, this is not just an international problem. Trafficking also takes place here in the United States. The U.S. State Department estimates that between 18,000 and 20,000 victims are trafficked into this country each year.
More than half of those trafficked into the United States are children, although many women and men are victims as well.
The majority of trafficking victims come to the United States from Asia, Latin America, Russia, Eastern Europe and Canada (but also Africa and India).
Trafficking victims sent to the United States typically do not speak English. They often are unable to communicate with service providers, police, or others who might be able to help them.
When a victim of trafficking is identified, it no longer matters what their purpose or intent was for coming to the United States.
Under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, victims of trafficking can apply for special visas or receive other forms of immigration relief.
Human trafficking is an horrific international problem, with nearly a million victims trafficked across international borders annually.
However, this is not just an international problem. Trafficking also takes place here in the United States. The U.S. State Department estimates that between 18,000 and 20,000 victims are trafficked into this country each year.
More than half of those trafficked into the United States are children, although many women and men are victims as well.
The majority of trafficking victims come to the United States from Asia, Latin America, Russia, Eastern Europe and Canada (but also Africa and India).
Trafficking victims sent to the United States typically do not speak English. They often are unable to communicate with service providers, police, or others who might be able to help them.
When a victim of trafficking is identified, it no longer matters what their purpose or intent was for coming to the United States.
Under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, victims of trafficking can apply for special visas or receive other forms of immigration relief.
19. Mindset of Trafficking Victims Frequently victims:
Do not speak English and are unfamiliar with U.S. culture
Distrust outsiders, especially law enforcement fear of deportation
Do not self-identify as victims; often blame themselves for predicaments
Although many victims have been beaten and/or raped, current situation may still be better than where they came from
May be unaware of rights or may have been intentionally misinformed about their rights in this country
Fear for safety of families in their home countries, who are often threatened by traffickers
As law enforcement officers interacting with potential victims of human trafficking, its important for you to keep in mind where the victim is coming from and what their mindset is when they come in contact with you.
These are just a few examples of the mindset of a typical victim of human trafficking [Refer to examples on the slide].
As law enforcement officers interacting with potential victims of human trafficking, its important for you to keep in mind where the victim is coming from and what their mindset is when they come in contact with you.
These are just a few examples of the mindset of a typical victim of human trafficking [Refer to examples on the slide].
20. How Are Victims Trafficked?
Force, fraud and coercion are methods used by traffickers to press victims
into lives of servitude, & abuse
Force: Rape, beatings, confinement
Fraud: Includes false and deceptive offers of employment, marriage, better life
Coercion: Threats of serious harm to, or physical restraint of, any person; any scheme, plan or pattern intended to cause victims to believe that failure to perform an act would result in restraint against them; or the abuse or threatened abuse of the legal process
Many victims of trafficking are forced to work in the sex trade. However, trafficking also takes place in labor situations such as domestic servitude, sweatshop factories, or migrant agricultural work.
Traffickers use force, fraud and coercion to traffic women, men and children.
Many victims of trafficking are forced to work in the sex trade. However, trafficking also takes place in labor situations such as domestic servitude, sweatshop factories, or migrant agricultural work.
Traffickers use force, fraud and coercion to traffic women, men and children.
21. TIP - How Does it Sometimes Happen? Sad but very true stories. It is happening around the world and happening just about everywhere DOD employees, family members, and service members are stationed.Sad but very true stories. It is happening around the world and happening just about everywhere DOD employees, family members, and service members are stationed.
22. Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) Signed into law October 2000
Prior to 2000, no comprehensive law to protect victims of trafficking or to prosecute traffickers
Made human trafficking a Federal crime
Goals of law:
Prevent human trafficking overseas
Increase prosecution of human traffickers in the United States
Protect victims, provide Federal and state assistance to victims Now that weve talked about what human trafficking is and have discussed the myths and realities associated with human trafficking, I want to provide you with an overview of the law that was passed in 2000 to solidify human trafficking as a Federal crime with strict penalties for perpetrators convicted of the crime, and benefits and services for victims of the crime.
The TVPA was enacted to deter human trafficking the fastest growing source of profits for organized crime worldwide.
[Refer to the slide for overview of the VTPA 2000]
Now that weve talked about what human trafficking is and have discussed the myths and realities associated with human trafficking, I want to provide you with an overview of the law that was passed in 2000 to solidify human trafficking as a Federal crime with strict penalties for perpetrators convicted of the crime, and benefits and services for victims of the crime.
The TVPA was enacted to deter human trafficking the fastest growing source of profits for organized crime worldwide.
[Refer to the slide for overview of the VTPA 2000]
23. Trafficking Victims Protection Act Law addresses three key areas:
Prevention
Public awareness and education
Protection
T visa, certification, benefits and services to help victims rebuild their lives
Prosecution
New law enforcement tools and efforts
The law authorizes prevention efforts that include public awareness and education programs.
Protection and assistance for victims of trafficking under the law includes legal assistance and interpretation, job training and counseling programs. The TVPA establishes a new visa status, the T visa, which allows victims of severe forms of trafficking to become temporary residents of the United States. The T visa signifies a shift in the immigration law policy, which previously treated victims of trafficking as illegal aliens subject to deportation. The T visa is a critical tool as it will help keep victims in the United States legally so they can cooperate with you and serve as witnesses for the prosecution.
New law enforcement efforts are now available through the law, making it easier to prosecute traffickers who are identified and convicted of trafficking offenses, which I will talk about more on the next slide.
The law makes victims of severe forms of trafficking eligible for benefits and services under Federal or state programs once they become certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Once certified, trafficking victims will be eligible to apply for benefits and services under any Federal or state funded programs, to the same extent as refugees. Certified victims are also eligible for refugee cash, medical assistance and social services.
Victims under 18 years of age do not need to be certified in order to be eligible for benefits and services. For these victims, the Department of Health and Human Services issues a Letter of Eligibility so that they have proof of eligibility for federally funded and administered benefits and services.
Victims of human trafficking who are non-U.S. citizens are eligible to receive benefits and services through the TVPA to the same extent as refugees. Victims who are U.S. citizens, do not need to be certified by HHS and are already eligible to receive many of these benefits.The law authorizes prevention efforts that include public awareness and education programs.
Protection and assistance for victims of trafficking under the law includes legal assistance and interpretation, job training and counseling programs. The TVPA establishes a new visa status, the T visa, which allows victims of severe forms of trafficking to become temporary residents of the United States. The T visa signifies a shift in the immigration law policy, which previously treated victims of trafficking as illegal aliens subject to deportation. The T visa is a critical tool as it will help keep victims in the United States legally so they can cooperate with you and serve as witnesses for the prosecution.
New law enforcement efforts are now available through the law, making it easier to prosecute traffickers who are identified and convicted of trafficking offenses, which I will talk about more on the next slide.
The law makes victims of severe forms of trafficking eligible for benefits and services under Federal or state programs once they become certified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Once certified, trafficking victims will be eligible to apply for benefits and services under any Federal or state funded programs, to the same extent as refugees. Certified victims are also eligible for refugee cash, medical assistance and social services.
Victims under 18 years of age do not need to be certified in order to be eligible for benefits and services. For these victims, the Department of Health and Human Services issues a Letter of Eligibility so that they have proof of eligibility for federally funded and administered benefits and services.
Victims of human trafficking who are non-U.S. citizens are eligible to receive benefits and services through the TVPA to the same extent as refugees. Victims who are U.S. citizens, do not need to be certified by HHS and are already eligible to receive many of these benefits.
24. How TVPA Affects What You Do Creates new laws that criminalize trafficking regarding slavery, involuntary servitude, peonage or forced labor
Permits prosecution where non-violent coercion was used to force victims to work in belief they would be subject to serious harm
Permits prosecution where victim's service compelled by confiscation of documents such as passports or birth certificates
Increases prison terms for all slavery violations from 10 years to 20 years; adds life imprisonment where violation involves death, kidnapping, or sexual abuse of victim
Requires courts to order restitution, forfeiture of assets upon conviction
Enables victims to seek witness protection, other types of assistance
Gives prosecutors and agents new tools to get legal immigration status for victims of trafficking during investigation, prosecution
TVPA imposes stricter sentences on those convicted of committing crimes of human trafficking.
For example, if a trafficking crime results in death or if the crime includes kidnapping, an attempted kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, attempted aggravated sexual abuse, or an attempt to kill, the trafficker could be sentenced to life in prison. Traffickers who exploit children (under the age of 14) using force, fraud or coercion, for the purpose of sex trafficking can be imprisoned for life. If the victim was a child between the age of 14 and 18 and the sex trafficking did not involve force, fraud or coercion, the trafficker could receive up to 20 years in prison.
Moreover, the law addresses the subtle means of coercion used by traffickers to bind their victims into servitude, including: psychological coercion, trickery, and the seizure of documents, activities which were difficult to prosecute under preexisting involuntary servitude statutes and case law. TVPA imposes stricter sentences on those convicted of committing crimes of human trafficking.
For example, if a trafficking crime results in death or if the crime includes kidnapping, an attempted kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse, attempted aggravated sexual abuse, or an attempt to kill, the trafficker could be sentenced to life in prison. Traffickers who exploit children (under the age of 14) using force, fraud or coercion, for the purpose of sex trafficking can be imprisoned for life. If the victim was a child between the age of 14 and 18 and the sex trafficking did not involve force, fraud or coercion, the trafficker could receive up to 20 years in prison.
Moreover, the law addresses the subtle means of coercion used by traffickers to bind their victims into servitude, including: psychological coercion, trickery, and the seizure of documents, activities which were difficult to prosecute under preexisting involuntary servitude statutes and case law.
25. How TVPA Affects What You Do Often traffickers break state laws such as:
Murder
Kidnapping
Battery
Assault
Sexual battery
False imprisonment
Prostitution
Promoting prostitution
There are ways for you to use the TVPA to prosecute crimes associated with human trafficking at the state and local levels.
Human trafficking crimes involving [Refer to list on slide] can be prosecuted locally.There are ways for you to use the TVPA to prosecute crimes associated with human trafficking at the state and local levels.
Human trafficking crimes involving [Refer to list on slide] can be prosecuted locally.
26. TVPA Reauthorized in 2003 and again in 2005 Federal government authorized more than $200 million to continue domestic fight against human trafficking
New laws strengthens legal elements of TVPA
Sex and labor trafficking now considered offenses under RICO statute
Encourages nations 21,000 law enforcement agencies to investigate cases of trafficking
Brings important attention to reduce demand for commercial sex acts that fuel sex trafficking In December 2003, the President signed the Trafficking Victims Reauthorization Act, which authorized more than $200 million to combat the issue of human trafficking, particularly of women and children forced into prostitution.
In 2005, President Bush again re-authorized Trafficking Victims Protections Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) emphasizing the reduction of sex industry demands. President Bush stated We cannot put the criminals out of business until we can confront the problem of demand. Those who pay for the chance to sexually abuse children and teenage girls must be held to account. So well investigate and prosecute the consumers, the unscrupulous adults who pray on the young and innocent.
TVPRA provides fresh resources to assist victims of trafficking and even further strengthens the law enforcement tools designed in the original law:
TVPRA adds human trafficking to the list of racketeering offenses covered under the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO Statute) and allows trafficking victims to sue their captors in Federal courts.In December 2003, the President signed the Trafficking Victims Reauthorization Act, which authorized more than $200 million to combat the issue of human trafficking, particularly of women and children forced into prostitution.
In 2005, President Bush again re-authorized Trafficking Victims Protections Reauthorization Act (TVPRA) emphasizing the reduction of sex industry demands. President Bush stated We cannot put the criminals out of business until we can confront the problem of demand. Those who pay for the chance to sexually abuse children and teenage girls must be held to account. So well investigate and prosecute the consumers, the unscrupulous adults who pray on the young and innocent.
TVPRA provides fresh resources to assist victims of trafficking and even further strengthens the law enforcement tools designed in the original law:
TVPRA adds human trafficking to the list of racketeering offenses covered under the Federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO Statute) and allows trafficking victims to sue their captors in Federal courts.
27. Identifying Crime of Human Trafficking Immediate concerns for law enforcement:
Identify when crimes of trafficking taking place
Identify and distinguish between victims and perpetrators
Stop crimes of trafficking in progress
Manage victims of trafficking as witnesses
Secure evidence of trafficking for prosecutions and trials
In meeting the Presidents challenge to combat human trafficking, its important for you as law enforcement officers to approach these crimes differently from the ways you might approach other criminal investigations.
Following are key factors to consider when encountering situations that may involve crimes of human trafficking. [Refer to list on the slide]
In meeting the Presidents challenge to combat human trafficking, its important for you as law enforcement officers to approach these crimes differently from the ways you might approach other criminal investigations.
Following are key factors to consider when encountering situations that may involve crimes of human trafficking. [Refer to list on the slide]
28. Identifying Crime of Human Trafficking Non-verbal crime scene clues to link to human trafficking:
Living conditions of potential victims
Physical abuse
Working conditions
Restriction of movement indicators
Behavior indicators of severe dependency
Possession of others legal documentation
Possession of false or fraudulent documentation
Insistence on providing information to officer
Often times you will be faced with the perpetrator or trafficker at the scene of a crime, who will provide you with the alleged explanations of the situation. In these cases, its important for you to note some of these factors at the scene of the crime as they may indicate there are victims of human trafficking:
What are their living conditions?
Can you see or detect any physical abuse?
What are their working conditions?
Are there indications of restriction (are they allowed to leave the premises)?
Are there any behavioral indicators of severe dependency, submissive behavior, fearful behavior in the presence of others?
Who is in physical possession of their legal documents of identification?
Who insists on providing information to law enforcement?
Are they in the country legally?
Often times you will be faced with the perpetrator or trafficker at the scene of a crime, who will provide you with the alleged explanations of the situation. In these cases, its important for you to note some of these factors at the scene of the crime as they may indicate there are victims of human trafficking:
What are their living conditions?
Can you see or detect any physical abuse?
What are their working conditions?
Are there indications of restriction (are they allowed to leave the premises)?
Are there any behavioral indicators of severe dependency, submissive behavior, fearful behavior in the presence of others?
Who is in physical possession of their legal documents of identification?
Who insists on providing information to law enforcement?
Are they in the country legally?
29. Identifying Crime of Human Trafficking Local law enforcers most likely first to come upon crimes of human trafficking
Look beneath surface of other crimes and scenarios to expose crimes of human trafficking:
Prostitution rings
(brothels, escort services, massage parlors)
Pornography
Illegal operations of massage parlors, strip clubs
Domestic abuse
Vice raids involving foreign nationals
Crimes involving immigrant children with no guardians As I mentioned earlier, as law enforcement officers, you are most likely to be first to the scene of a crime that involves human trafficking. However the biggest challenge for you will be the difficulty of identifying victims of human trafficking.
Its important for you to look beneath the surface of these types of crimes [Refer to list on slide] crimes you may encounter on a daily basis to identify victims of human trafficking.
As I mentioned earlier, as law enforcement officers, you are most likely to be first to the scene of a crime that involves human trafficking. However the biggest challenge for you will be the difficulty of identifying victims of human trafficking.
Its important for you to look beneath the surface of these types of crimes [Refer to list on slide] crimes you may encounter on a daily basis to identify victims of human trafficking.
30. Identifying Crime of Human Trafficking Evidence of control and lack of ability to move freely or leave job
Bruises or other signs of physical abuse
Intense fear or depression
Non-English speaking
Recent arrival from Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Canada, Africa, India
Lack of ID or immigration documents Once you think you have encountered a crime scene involving human trafficking, there are other key factors youll need to consider when identifying potential victims and distinguishing them from the real criminals their traffickers.
A person who is trafficked may look like anyone you encounter at a crime scene, but sensitively asking the right questions and looking for small clues will help you identify those people who have been fraudulently induced, forced or coerced into a life of sexual exploitation or forced labor. Look for the following clues: [Refer to list of clues on the slide]
You should also take into consideration victims cultural and social background as these traits will impact the way victims should be managed as witnesses, as well as the way the investigation of their cases is carried out.
Victims may not be able to communicate with you because of language or cultural barriers.
Victims often have a fear of being deported.
Victims may appear to you as a prostitute or a willing participant in the traffickers enterprise.
Victims frequently do not self-identify themselves as victims.
Victims may display an allegiance to their trafficker/employer.
Once you think you have encountered a crime scene involving human trafficking, there are other key factors youll need to consider when identifying potential victims and distinguishing them from the real criminals their traffickers.
A person who is trafficked may look like anyone you encounter at a crime scene, but sensitively asking the right questions and looking for small clues will help you identify those people who have been fraudulently induced, forced or coerced into a life of sexual exploitation or forced labor. Look for the following clues: [Refer to list of clues on the slide]
You should also take into consideration victims cultural and social background as these traits will impact the way victims should be managed as witnesses, as well as the way the investigation of their cases is carried out.
Victims may not be able to communicate with you because of language or cultural barriers.
Victims often have a fear of being deported.
Victims may appear to you as a prostitute or a willing participant in the traffickers enterprise.
Victims frequently do not self-identify themselves as victims.
Victims may display an allegiance to their trafficker/employer.
31. Action Agenda Checklist Conduct agency training on human trafficking including dispatch
Include TIP in crime prevention briefings
Identify and train victim advocates
Develop collaborative relationships before a trafficking case occurs
Identify business/contract personnel that employ low-paid workers develop sources in these organizations
Assess local sex industry and identify hiring practices Learning about trafficking in persons is just the beginning. Action is required by U.S. and military laws and policies. Proactivity is the key to success. This is a sample of a checklist to begin your efforts in identifying, intervening, investigating, and prevention of TIP. This is just a sample of possible actions you can take. You know your particular area and jurisdiction. You have also developed liaison with other law enforcement/investigative agencies ensure all your other prevention and investigative efforts include TIP. Dont simply wait for victims to report because most will not. You must actively seek out those who are being held against their will by utilizing all the resources at your disposal. Learning about trafficking in persons is just the beginning. Action is required by U.S. and military laws and policies. Proactivity is the key to success. This is a sample of a checklist to begin your efforts in identifying, intervening, investigating, and prevention of TIP. This is just a sample of possible actions you can take. You know your particular area and jurisdiction. You have also developed liaison with other law enforcement/investigative agencies ensure all your other prevention and investigative efforts include TIP. Dont simply wait for victims to report because most will not. You must actively seek out those who are being held against their will by utilizing all the resources at your disposal.
32. Victims of Trafficking and Their Needs There are four general areas of victim needs:
Immediate assistance
Housing, food, medical, safety and security, language interpretation and legal services
Mental health assistance
Counseling
Income assistance
Cash, living assistance
Legal status
T visa, immigration, certification
Victims of human trafficking are vulnerable human beings who have been subjected to severe physical and emotional coercion. These trafficking victims are usually in desperate need of assistance. Victims of human trafficking need to know that once they come in contact with law enforcement officers, they should feel protected and safe.
There are benefits and services available to trafficking victims. And the TVPA authorizes special benefits and services to adult victims who are willing to cooperate in the prosecution of their traffickers and to minor victims regardless of whether they are willing to cooperate. These benefits and services include legal, healthcare, counseling, housing, food, medical, cash and employment assistance.
HHS has also created a toll-free number for law enforcement officers to call if they have identified a victim of trafficking. By calling the Trafficking Information and Referral Hotline, 1.888.3737.888, you can help identified victims of trafficking get this assistance, and they can help you prosecute and convict the real criminals. For more information on human trafficking visit www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking.
Victims of human trafficking are vulnerable human beings who have been subjected to severe physical and emotional coercion. These trafficking victims are usually in desperate need of assistance. Victims of human trafficking need to know that once they come in contact with law enforcement officers, they should feel protected and safe.
There are benefits and services available to trafficking victims. And the TVPA authorizes special benefits and services to adult victims who are willing to cooperate in the prosecution of their traffickers and to minor victims regardless of whether they are willing to cooperate. These benefits and services include legal, healthcare, counseling, housing, food, medical, cash and employment assistance.
HHS has also created a toll-free number for law enforcement officers to call if they have identified a victim of trafficking. By calling the Trafficking Information and Referral Hotline, 1.888.3737.888, you can help identified victims of trafficking get this assistance, and they can help you prosecute and convict the real criminals. For more information on human trafficking visit www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking.
33. Communicating with Victims of Human Trafficking Fear of deportation
Does not Identify as Victim
Distrust of law enforcement
Unaware of rights The TVPA authorizes special visas and other forms of immigration relief to certain trafficking victims
You are a victim, not a criminal. What is happening to you is wrong
We can help get you what you need. We can protect you. You can trust us
You have rights. You have the right to live without being abused In order to transition a victim of human trafficking from a victim to a witness, there are some key points to consider and key messages you should convey. This slide illustrates some characteristics of the victims mindset and offers some messages to convey to victims to reassure them they are in safe hands.
An effective method for obtaining cooperation of a victim of human trafficking is to put their needs first. A successful investigation and prosecution of a human trafficking case is victim-centered. This requires lending support to traumatized and confused victims before you can gain their confidence. Although capturing and convicting the trafficker are top priorities, it is more strategic to put the safety, education and concerns of the victims first throughout the case investigation and prosecution.
Effective communication is essential in gaining trust of victims as well as defining their immediate needs. Effective witness management extends into the courtroom when the time comes to present testimony and evidence to a jury. First and foremost, you will need to keep in mind that most victims fear deportation. Once it is revealed they do not have their legal identification, they will expect you to charge them as illegal immigrants and have them deported back to their country of origin. While many of these victims are women and children who have been raped or beaten, their current situation may actually be better than where they came from. Therefore, it will be important for you to convey to the victim that they are safe and that they will not be deported.
Most victims of trafficking do not self-identify themselves as victims. They assume what they are doing is just a way of life, a way to make a living. They dont know that what has been done to them is illegal. Victims may project a sense of fear or distrust toward you, which could originate from the negative perceptions of law enforcement in their countries of origin. Its critical for you to convey that you can protect them and help them to obtain the assistance they need. Most victims will generally be unaware of any rights they may have. From their perspective, they may not think they even have the right to live. Therefore, its important for you to tell them they do have rights and that they may be entitled to receive benefits and services to rebuild their lives.
These communication tips will help you gain the trust of the victim and will help with the transition from victim to witness.
In order to transition a victim of human trafficking from a victim to a witness, there are some key points to consider and key messages you should convey. This slide illustrates some characteristics of the victims mindset and offers some messages to convey to victims to reassure them they are in safe hands.
An effective method for obtaining cooperation of a victim of human trafficking is to put their needs first. A successful investigation and prosecution of a human trafficking case is victim-centered. This requires lending support to traumatized and confused victims before you can gain their confidence. Although capturing and convicting the trafficker are top priorities, it is more strategic to put the safety, education and concerns of the victims first throughout the case investigation and prosecution.
Effective communication is essential in gaining trust of victims as well as defining their immediate needs. Effective witness management extends into the courtroom when the time comes to present testimony and evidence to a jury. First and foremost, you will need to keep in mind that most victims fear deportation. Once it is revealed they do not have their legal identification, they will expect you to charge them as illegal immigrants and have them deported back to their country of origin. While many of these victims are women and children who have been raped or beaten, their current situation may actually be better than where they came from. Therefore, it will be important for you to convey to the victim that they are safe and that they will not be deported.
Most victims of trafficking do not self-identify themselves as victims. They assume what they are doing is just a way of life, a way to make a living. They dont know that what has been done to them is illegal. Victims may project a sense of fear or distrust toward you, which could originate from the negative perceptions of law enforcement in their countries of origin. Its critical for you to convey that you can protect them and help them to obtain the assistance they need. Most victims will generally be unaware of any rights they may have. From their perspective, they may not think they even have the right to live. Therefore, its important for you to tell them they do have rights and that they may be entitled to receive benefits and services to rebuild their lives.
These communication tips will help you gain the trust of the victim and will help with the transition from victim to witness.
34. Identifying Victims of Trafficking Key Questions for Victims of Trafficking:
How did you get here?
Where do you live, eat and sleep?
Do you owe someone money?
Is someone keeping your legal/travel documents?
Were you threatened if you tried to leave?
Has your family been threatened?
Were you ever physically abused?
Were you ever forced to stay in one place?
Who are you afraid of?
Should you encounter a person who may be a victim of human trafficking, there are key questions you can ask that may help you to properly identify that person as a victim and can help you build a criminal investigation [refer to list of key questions on slide].
Its important for you as law enforcement officers to really look beneath the surface of those you encounter at crime scenes. The next prostitute, stripper, runaway youth or illegal immigrant you encounter may actually be a victim of human trafficking, in desperate need of your help.
Asking these questions can help you make the distinction between victim and criminal.Should you encounter a person who may be a victim of human trafficking, there are key questions you can ask that may help you to properly identify that person as a victim and can help you build a criminal investigation [refer to list of key questions on slide].
Its important for you as law enforcement officers to really look beneath the surface of those you encounter at crime scenes. The next prostitute, stripper, runaway youth or illegal immigrant you encounter may actually be a victim of human trafficking, in desperate need of your help.
Asking these questions can help you make the distinction between victim and criminal.
35. Protocol for Successful Interviews Be aware that traffickers might not be easy to distinguish from victims
Educate yourself on trauma, its impact and effects
Adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude
Conduct interviews individually and in private
When an interpreter is needed, use a skilled interpreter
Dont begin the interview with documentation or legal status this may frighten the victim
Do not ask Are you a slave?; Are you a trafficking victim?
Allow interviewees to describe what happened to others before focusing on their own suffering
Provide victims the opportunity to tell their story in their own way These are some important tips to consider while interviewing a potential victim of trafficking. Your role is to obtain as much information as possible to determine what crimes, if any, have been committed. As with many victims of crimes against persons trafficking victims may have been manipulated, beaten, coerced, sexually abuse, and dehumanized well beyond our own understanding. Successful interviewers are compassionate, patient, and understanding.
The following protocol should be used when interviewing potential victims:
Be aware that traffickers might not be easy to distinguish from victims and understand that some victims may have to collaborate in order to survive. The truth is often illusive. Some criminals may go to great lengths to avoid detection to include using others to do their bidding. Traffickers may have great interpersonal skills and may manipulate or coerce others to assist them in their criminal enterprises.
Educate yourself on trauma, its impact and effects or collaborate with a trauma specialist to assist in the interviews. Remember that many of the psychological effects experienced by kidnap victims, sexual assault victims, torture victims, and prisoners of war may be severe and quite traumatic. Many victims of trafficking have suffered through some or perhaps all of these horrible ordeals and must be treated in a understanding and empathetic manner. If you dont understand trauma and the effects of trauma please seek assistance from someone who does. If handled improperly, you may certainly do much more harm than good.
Adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude. Many trafficking victims can evoke deeply held bias and emotional responses due to their status, occupation, or demeanor. Be considerate and understanding most of all be professional.
Conduct interviews individually and in private, remembering that the victim may need a counselor, victim advocate, or attorney for support.
When an interpreter is needed, select a skilled interpreter who you are confident is in no way connected to the traffickers.
Do not begin your interview with documentation or legal status as this may frighten or confuse the victim and interfere with building trust. Remember this may have been one of the biggest hooks use by the trafficker.
Do not ask Are you a slave; Are you a trafficking victim? These types of question can be very victimizing and confusing to the victim. They may not see themselves as a slave or even a victim. It is your role to determine that not theirs.
Allow interviewees to describe what happened to their counterparts before focusing on the victims own suffering; it is often easier for them to talk about what happened to other people before they are able to describe what happened to them.
Provide victims the opportunity to tell their story; it may help them to do so. Victims have had so much taken from them to include autonomy and empowerment to say or do what they wish. Allowing time for the victim to tell their story in their way without being rushed is extremely important. Also, allow the victim to work through and describe their emotions for it is through the emotions that the story was experienced and in their emotions that the story and the facts will unfold.These are some important tips to consider while interviewing a potential victim of trafficking. Your role is to obtain as much information as possible to determine what crimes, if any, have been committed. As with many victims of crimes against persons trafficking victims may have been manipulated, beaten, coerced, sexually abuse, and dehumanized well beyond our own understanding. Successful interviewers are compassionate, patient, and understanding.
The following protocol should be used when interviewing potential victims:
Be aware that traffickers might not be easy to distinguish from victims and understand that some victims may have to collaborate in order to survive. The truth is often illusive. Some criminals may go to great lengths to avoid detection to include using others to do their bidding. Traffickers may have great interpersonal skills and may manipulate or coerce others to assist them in their criminal enterprises.
Educate yourself on trauma, its impact and effects or collaborate with a trauma specialist to assist in the interviews. Remember that many of the psychological effects experienced by kidnap victims, sexual assault victims, torture victims, and prisoners of war may be severe and quite traumatic. Many victims of trafficking have suffered through some or perhaps all of these horrible ordeals and must be treated in a understanding and empathetic manner. If you dont understand trauma and the effects of trauma please seek assistance from someone who does. If handled improperly, you may certainly do much more harm than good.
Adopt a compassionate and non-judgmental attitude. Many trafficking victims can evoke deeply held bias and emotional responses due to their status, occupation, or demeanor. Be considerate and understanding most of all be professional.
Conduct interviews individually and in private, remembering that the victim may need a counselor, victim advocate, or attorney for support.
When an interpreter is needed, select a skilled interpreter who you are confident is in no way connected to the traffickers.
Do not begin your interview with documentation or legal status as this may frighten or confuse the victim and interfere with building trust. Remember this may have been one of the biggest hooks use by the trafficker.
Do not ask Are you a slave; Are you a trafficking victim? These types of question can be very victimizing and confusing to the victim. They may not see themselves as a slave or even a victim. It is your role to determine that not theirs.
Allow interviewees to describe what happened to their counterparts before focusing on the victims own suffering; it is often easier for them to talk about what happened to other people before they are able to describe what happened to them.
Provide victims the opportunity to tell their story; it may help them to do so. Victims have had so much taken from them to include autonomy and empowerment to say or do what they wish. Allowing time for the victim to tell their story in their way without being rushed is extremely important. Also, allow the victim to work through and describe their emotions for it is through the emotions that the story was experienced and in their emotions that the story and the facts will unfold.
36. Your Role as Local Law Enforcement Officers Keep doing what youre doing
Take closer look beneath surface
Help build and prosecute crimes at state level
Cooperate with district attorneys, social services and Federal authorities if case becomes Federal
Call Trafficking Information and Referral Hotline,
1.888.3737.888, to connect victims to services they may be eligible to receive. For more information on human trafficking visit www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking.
You have a critical role in helping to identify victims of human trafficking and prosecuting their traffickers the real criminals.
Its important that you keep doing what youre doing. As local law enforcement officers, you are most often the first responder or the first to encounter individuals at the scene of a crime, making your role in identifying victims and perpetrators is key to building a case.
Go to crime scenes, question potential perpetrators and potential victims, assess crime scenes and collect evidence. But when you do all of these things, take a closer look, beneath the surface. What you think youre looking at may in fact be a crime scene involving victims of human trafficking. Remember, the next prostitute, stripper runaway youth or illegal immigrant you take into custody could be a victim of human trafficking.
As I mentioned earlier, there are other crimes committed by traffickers that may also be prosecuted at the state level such as violent crimes of murder, kidnapping, battery, assault, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
Most often it is local law enforcement personnel who initially encounter victims of trafficking out in the field. A successful policing strategy on the local level will incorporate cooperation with Federal authorities in the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking and will coordinate efforts with local social service providers to meet the immediate needs of the trafficking victims.
If you think you have come in contact with a potential victim of human trafficking, you should call 1.888.3737.888, the Trafficking Information and Referral Hotline, to further assist any victims you identify and to find out how helping those victims can help you build your case to prosecute and convict their traffickers. For more information on human trafficking visit www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking.
You have a critical role in helping to identify victims of human trafficking and prosecuting their traffickers the real criminals.
Its important that you keep doing what youre doing. As local law enforcement officers, you are most often the first responder or the first to encounter individuals at the scene of a crime, making your role in identifying victims and perpetrators is key to building a case.
Go to crime scenes, question potential perpetrators and potential victims, assess crime scenes and collect evidence. But when you do all of these things, take a closer look, beneath the surface. What you think youre looking at may in fact be a crime scene involving victims of human trafficking. Remember, the next prostitute, stripper runaway youth or illegal immigrant you take into custody could be a victim of human trafficking.
As I mentioned earlier, there are other crimes committed by traffickers that may also be prosecuted at the state level such as violent crimes of murder, kidnapping, battery, assault, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
Most often it is local law enforcement personnel who initially encounter victims of trafficking out in the field. A successful policing strategy on the local level will incorporate cooperation with Federal authorities in the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking and will coordinate efforts with local social service providers to meet the immediate needs of the trafficking victims.
If you think you have come in contact with a potential victim of human trafficking, you should call 1.888.3737.888, the Trafficking Information and Referral Hotline, to further assist any victims you identify and to find out how helping those victims can help you build your case to prosecute and convict their traffickers. For more information on human trafficking visit www.acf.hhs.gov/trafficking.
37. DOD Response to Labor Trafficking in Iraq Recent DOD investigation identified a number of labor trafficking abuses in Iraq
Some of these abuses included:
Illegal confiscation of Third Country National (TCNs) passports; deceptive hiring practices, substandard living conditions, circumvention of Iraqi immigration procedures
The victims were largely low-skilled workers from Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines As previously stated, trafficking in humans doesnt simply involve sexual servitude but takes many forms wherever a profit can be made human trafficking may soon follow. Due to DODs stepped up initiatives to find and prevent human trafficking, several trafficking in human violations and schemes were uncovered. Most of these violations were committed by subcontractors, however; that fact doesnt matter. Regardless of how the employee is recruited through a contractor or subcontractor this employee works for the United States government and should be treated with dignity and respect. Under no circumstances can any government agency especially the United States government condone any human trafficking abuses. Military law enforcement professionals at all levels must be vigilant and make every attempt possible to proactively identify and investigate any violation of international and national trafficking in persons laws and policies. As previously stated, trafficking in humans doesnt simply involve sexual servitude but takes many forms wherever a profit can be made human trafficking may soon follow. Due to DODs stepped up initiatives to find and prevent human trafficking, several trafficking in human violations and schemes were uncovered. Most of these violations were committed by subcontractors, however; that fact doesnt matter. Regardless of how the employee is recruited through a contractor or subcontractor this employee works for the United States government and should be treated with dignity and respect. Under no circumstances can any government agency especially the United States government condone any human trafficking abuses. Military law enforcement professionals at all levels must be vigilant and make every attempt possible to proactively identify and investigate any violation of international and national trafficking in persons laws and policies.
38. DOD Response to Labor Trafficking in Iraq In response to identified abuses the Commanding General, Multinational Forces Iraq issues specific labor guidelines to all Defense contractors including:
All contractors cease practice of holding or withholding employees passports
All employees of DOD contractors and subcontractors will be provided a signed copy of their employment contract that defines the terms of their employment and compensation
Contractors and subcontractors must be licensed recruiting firms
Recruiting firms must not charge employees illegal recruitment fees In April, 2006, General George W. Casey, Commanding General, Multinational Forces-Iraq, issues specific labor guidelines to all Defense contractors. Under the policy, contractors and subcontractors are required to comply with personal living space standards, international and host country laws for work visas, and transit and entry procedures. This response works to ensure the U.S. employs a zero tolerance policy against human trafficking domestically and abroad.In April, 2006, General George W. Casey, Commanding General, Multinational Forces-Iraq, issues specific labor guidelines to all Defense contractors. Under the policy, contractors and subcontractors are required to comply with personal living space standards, international and host country laws for work visas, and transit and entry procedures. This response works to ensure the U.S. employs a zero tolerance policy against human trafficking domestically and abroad.
39. Another important aspect of the 2005 Trafficking Victim Protection Reauthorization Act is that it requires DoD to incorporate anti-trafficking measures into post-conflict and humanitarian emergencies aid plans/programs. What this means to you as a DoD law enforcement official is that you must consider TIP and proactively incorporate identification, intervention, and investigative strategies. This is not an option this is a requirement. Another important aspect of the 2005 Trafficking Victim Protection Reauthorization Act is that it requires DoD to incorporate anti-trafficking measures into post-conflict and humanitarian emergencies aid plans/programs. What this means to you as a DoD law enforcement official is that you must consider TIP and proactively incorporate identification, intervention, and investigative strategies. This is not an option this is a requirement.
40. These are some reasons why post-conflict and humanitarian aid are high risk for TIP. Bottom line the risk for trafficking in persons increases as the rule of law, law enforcement, and social order decreases.These are some reasons why post-conflict and humanitarian aid are high risk for TIP. Bottom line the risk for trafficking in persons increases as the rule of law, law enforcement, and social order decreases.
41. These are some suggestions on best practices used to approach the problem of post-conflict and humanitarian aid TIP. Your continued surveillance of the situation and potential risks for TIP is essential in developing and maintaining and effective program to combat TIP.These are some suggestions on best practices used to approach the problem of post-conflict and humanitarian aid TIP. Your continued surveillance of the situation and potential risks for TIP is essential in developing and maintaining and effective program to combat TIP.
42. The following is a web source that list NGOs that assist victims of TIP for many countries:
http://humantrafficking.org/
There are a few NGOs that provide services for victims, such as shelters, however there are none that work to prevent, monitor or raise awareness of trafficking. The two main NGOs providing shelters and limited legal and medical assistance are:
Asuda, based in Sulaymaniyah
Womens Organization for Freedom in Iraq, based in Baghdad.
ICE has not established liaison with these NGOs due to not having traveled to Iraq. However, the American Embassy in Baghdad has strong ties with both organizations.
43. Here is one example of how a local command developed a campaign plan to identify, intervene, investigate and intervene in trafficking in persons. This is simply one example of many campaigns that can be developed. Each campaign should be developed in close cooperation with local, state, federal, national, and international authorities as appropriate. Your campaign plan should meet the needs of your local command and local situation.Here is one example of how a local command developed a campaign plan to identify, intervene, investigate and intervene in trafficking in persons. This is simply one example of many campaigns that can be developed. Each campaign should be developed in close cooperation with local, state, federal, national, and international authorities as appropriate. Your campaign plan should meet the needs of your local command and local situation.
46. Issues derived from Scenario
Potential Issues with regard to investigation and rescue attempt?
SOFA/sovereignty concerns?
Which (local or national) host nation law enforcement to use?
48. Investigations Scenario #1 You are a Special Agent working on an overseas installation in a combat zone. While conducting a crime prevention survey on the Moral, Welfare, Recreation (MWR) concessions, you discover one of the contractors providing massage therapists has been less than forthcoming about hiring practices. You develop information that some of the massage therapists, from eastern bloc countries are living in extremely poor conditions and may be providing sexual services on the side.
49. What actions should you take concerning the contractor?
How would you approach some of the therapists?
What investigative steps would you take?
What potential law violations should you consider?
Identify organizations that may assist you in this investigation? Investigations Scenario #1 (Contd)
50. You are a DoD investigator on a stateside installation. You have received information concerning a contractor building numerous military family housing units. Information received also suggests that many of the subcontractor labor are undocumented aliens and are working for half the wages most laborers in the area earn. You have also discovered that the subcontractor is holding the passports of some of the laborers. Investigations Scenario #2
51. What actions should you take concerning the contractor and subcontractor?
How would you approach some of the workers?
What investigative steps would you take?
What potential law violations should you consider?
Identify organizations that may assist you in this investigation? Investigations Scenario #2 (Contd)
52. Evidence of Success Officer Randy Shedd of the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police identified a 17-year-old runaway child engaged in prostitution. While speaking with the girl, Officer Shedd noticed a man whom he believed to be the girls pimp drive by in a blue Lincoln with New Jersey tags. Placing a look-out on the vehicle, D.C. police stopped the driver, Carlos Curtis, 27 within several hours. Curtis was with a 26-year-old woman and a 12-year-old runaway child, both of whom had been recruited for prostitution. Curtis brought them from New York to D.C. promising to provide them shelter, food, and clothing. Pornographic photos of the women and girls were found in the vehicle. Curtis was found guilty of federal crimes of sex trafficking of children, transportation of a minor for prostitution, transportation of a person for prostitution, and possession of child pornography. He was sentenced for life in prison. Before we conclude todays presentation, I want to share another example of success in which victims of human trafficking were identified and helped by local law enforcement officers.
[Insert talking points for case study]
Before we conclude todays presentation, I want to share another example of success in which victims of human trafficking were identified and helped by local law enforcement officers.
[Insert talking points for case study]
53. This completes the Law Enforcement
Training. Proceed to next slide to print certificate. Thank you for your taking the time to learn about this important issue and how you can help. Please proceed to next slide to complete and print your certificate of completion for the Law Enforcement training.Thank you for your taking the time to learn about this important issue and how you can help. Please proceed to next slide to complete and print your certificate of completion for the Law Enforcement training.
