Maryland is regularly recognized as a “hot spot” for human trafficking. According to the Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, Maryland’s central location, proximity to airports, and major highways such as Interstate-95 and a large number of truck stops make it a prime target for traffickers.
The task force defines human trafficking as “fraudulently, forcibly, or coercively using another for purposes of exploitation.” Human trafficking is generally classified into two categories: sex trafficking and labor trafficking. While there are a number of laws that criminalize trafficking, few provide adequate restitution for a victim. Even if a trafficker is held criminally responsible for the unlawful exploitation of another person, it does not mean that a victim will receive any compensation for the extensive and permanent mental and physical injuries these victims suffer.
At Schlachman, Belsky, Weiner, & Davey, P.A., we provide experienced representation for victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse. Our Baltimore sex trafficking lawyers are compassionate victims’ rights advocates who will get you the verdict or settlement you need to fully recover from the atrocities you experienced. If you or a loved one has been the victim of sex trafficking, contact our office at (410) 685-2022 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation.
Protections for Baltimore Sex Trafficking Victims
Research conducted by the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH) indicates that sex trafficking is the most common form of human trafficking in Maryland. In 2019 alone, 187 human trafficking cases were reported in the state, according to the NHTH. It is estimated that thousands go unreported.
In an effort to increase the number of human traffickers prosecuted and provide increased protections for victims, Maryland recently passed several legislative measures in 2019.
The Child Sex Trafficking Screening and Services Act helps to provide additional resources for child human trafficking survivors in the state. As noted by the University of Maryland SAFE Center for Human Trafficking Survivors, there were over 501 reports of suspected child sex trafficking from 2013 to 2018, involving over 425 minor victims. Prior to this legislation, many victims areas of Maryland were not equipped to provide specialized services for young sex trafficking victims.
The Anti-Exploitation Act of 2019 helped to criminalize labor trafficking in the state and the Human Trafficking & Prostitution Offenses 2019 updated Maryland’s sex trafficking laws to ensure:
- Sex trafficking is defined as a crime against a person.
- Trafficking an adult by “force, fraud, or coercion” is charged as a felony.
- A trafficker cannot use “mistake of age” as a defense.
- Felony sex trafficking is considered a crime of violence.
- There are better data collection efforts.
While Maryland continues to take concerted and important efforts toward recognizing sex trafficking survivors as criminal, it may not be enough. Few realize the lifelong impact that sex trafficking can have on an individual, including the continued need for therapy and counseling. Businesses, such as hotels, shopping center landlords, and other property owners can be held liable under Maryland law for allowing such acts to be committed on their premises.
Getting Compensation for Baltimore Sex Trafficking Survivors
If you believe that a human sex trafficker has exploited you or a loved one, contact our office. We are, first and foremost, your advocate, always providing the compassionate representation you need to get through this difficult time. Our attorneys stand up for your rights and work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (410) 685-2022 to discuss your case.
