RON FREITAS
District Attorney
San Joaquin County
Office of the District Attorney
Office of the District Attorney
Human Trafficking Prevention and Prosecution
The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office and Family Justice Center stand united in the fight against human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery in which individuals are recruited, transported, transferred, harbored, or received for the purpose of exploitation. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit people for various purposes
There are several forms of human trafficking, including:
Sex Trafficking: This involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, or obtain people for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation, including prostitution, pornography, and sexual performance.
Labor Trafficking: This involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, or obtain people for labor or services, such as domestic work, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Human trafficking is a global problem that affects people of all ages, genders, and nationalities. It can occur in any country and can involve both domestic and international trafficking. Victims of human trafficking can be men, women, or children, and they may come from any country or socio-economic background. However, traffickers often target vulnerable populations, such as refugees, undocumented immigrants, and people living in poverty.
Human trafficking is a serious crime and a violation of human rights. It is estimated that millions of people around the world are victims of human trafficking. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to prevention, protection, and prosecution.
In the United States, the National Human Trafficking Hotline receives reports of thousands of cases of human trafficking each year. In 2020, the hotline received 24,737 reports of human trafficking, with the majority of cases involving sex trafficking
(83%) and labor trafficking (16%). The hotline also reported that the most common industries involved in human trafficking cases in the U.S. include hospitality, agriculture, and manufacturing. It is important to note that these statistics likely
underrepresent the true scale of the problem, as human trafficking is often hidden and victims may be afraid to come forward or may not know how to get help. If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, it is important
to report it to the authorities or to a trusted organization that can provide help and support.
ASALT
San Joaquin County Anti-Sex and Labor Trafficking Task Force
PURPOSE
The San Joaquin County Anti-Sex and Labor Trafficking Task Force (hereafter referred to as ASALT) will endeavor to effectively reduce sex and labor trafficking from within San Joaquin County and the State of California, as expressed in the California Penal Code. Agencies participating in ASALT will be targeting their investigations towards apprehending violators of human trafficking laws, including both sex trafficking and labor trafficking, as well as rescue and provide services to victims of human trafficking. ASALT will use a variety of techniques and systems to accomplish task force goals, including:
- Maintain close and productive working relationships across disciplines amongst all stakeholders, including but not limited to law enforcement agents and investigators, prosecutors, probation officers, advocates, and healthcare providers
- Proactive and covert sting operations to address human trafficking hotspots throughout San Joaquin County
- Business compliance checks of organizations with high rates of human trafficking
- Investigation and development of labor trafficking cases
- Cohesive vision and response for providing victim services and early intervention
- Provide training to both law enforcement in the county and community groups
The use of this task force is intended to ensure well-coordinated enforcement of human trafficking laws, to increase the rate of arrests and successful prosecutions against violators, and to free survivors from the bondage of modern-day slavery.
MISSION
The mission of ASALT will be to significantly diminish the occurrences of human trafficking within San Joaquin County, to apprehend the responsible offenders, and to rescue survivors.
Do You Need Help?
If you are in danger, call 911.
San Joaquin County
Family Justice Center
209-468-2600
Local 24-hour Help Line
Victim-Witness Unit
209-468-2500
Local 24-hour Help Line
Chest of Hope
209-259-5552
24-hour Sexual Assault Help Line
PREVAIL Services
(209) 465-4997
National Human Trafficking Resource Center
(888) 373-7888
National Suicide Prevention Hotline
(800) 273-8255
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 66746
Myths and Facts:
MYTH: Trafficking only happens in other countries - not in our community
FACT: Human trafficking occurs globally, including in developed countries. It is a widespread issue that can affect any community, regardless of its economic status or location - this includes San Joaquin County. Awareness and prevention efforts are crucial to address this crime locally and internationally.
MYTH: Human trafficking is a problem that can be easily solved
FACT: Human trafficking is a complex and persistent issue that requires ongoing efforts from governments, law enforcement, communities, and individuals. Combating trafficking involves addressing root causes, raising awareness, implementing effective laws, and providing comprehensive support for survivors.
MYTH: Victims will always self-identify and seek help
FACT: Many victims may not recognize themselves as such due to manipulation, fear, or a lack of awareness about their situation. Outreach programs, education, and support services are crucial to identifying and assisting victims who may not come forward voluntarily.
The San Joaquin County Family Justice Center, is a resource for victims of Human Trafficking and other forms of violence, regardless of if you have made a crime report. The FJC provides a safe and welcoming space where victims can access a range of services which may include counseling, advocacy, and support services. If you or someone you know is a victim of Human Trafficking, please reach out to the FJC for help.
Did you know?
We offer free training on Human Trafficking led by FJC Program Manager, Alexis Wilbur, in partnership with Community Medical Center. This eye-opening session covers the basics of human trafficking and delves deep into the cultural aspects, the experiences of victims, and the mindset of purchasers as well as a survivor story. To request this impactful presentation, please submit a speaker request by clicking on the button below.
Presentation Note
This presentation is graphic in nature, and we want to ensure age-appropriate education. Please include the age range in your request so that we can tailor the message for the audience.