All 50 states in the U.S. have reported having cases of human trafficking, with 15,000 to 50,000 women and children being forced into sexual slavery every year. These activities are not limited to certain areas or countries, and they can occur anywhere, in developed nations, suburban areas, and rural communities. Human trafficking is a felony, and being charged with it carries the harshest penalties, especially in California.
California takes such conduct seriously. Sex trafficking lawyers from Gibbons & Gibbons Law Corporation advise you to speak with an attorney about your case as soon as possible if you’re facing human trafficking allegations. Working on it early on helps build a solid defense.
We’ll tell you the steps you can take with caution and resilience to shield yourself from the threat of sex trafficking charges. Learn the definition of sex trafficking, its penalties, and the protective measures to protect yourself and fight off the charge.
Sex Trafficking Laws
Sex trafficking refers to the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for the purpose of a commercial sex act through the use of force, fraud, or coercion. Minors induced into commercial sex are considered victims under the law, regardless of whether force, fraud, or coercion is present.
According to internet crime attorney Lawrence Zimmerman, the rapid growth of the internet has created new ways for human traffickers to recruit, exploit, and exert control over victims, while also making their illegal operations easier to carry out.
Penalties for sex trafficking are severe, with potential imprisonment ranging from several years to life, depending on the circumstances. Fines can be substantial, too, and those convicted may be required to pay restitution to the victims as well.
Online Privacy Measures
One effective way to protect yourself from potential risks is by taking proactive steps to keep your online activities private. Here are some tips you can consider:
- Be mindful of the information you share online to avoid any misunderstandings or misinterpretations that could potentially lead to sex trafficking charges.
- Adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to limit who can see your personal information. Be cautious about the content you post online so it doesn’t inadvertently promote any illegal activities or behaviors.
- Avoid engaging in provocative or suggestive conversations with strangers online, as these interactions could be misconstrued.
- Be wary of sharing your location or detailed personal information with people you don’t know well.
Building a Strong Support System
Establishing a strong support system helps handle challenges and seek assistance when needed. Your support system should ideally include trusted friends, family members, mentors, or support groups who can offer guidance, advice, and emotional support during difficult times.
Cultivate relationships with people who genuinely care about your well-being and are willing to advocate for you in times of need. These people can provide a non-judgmental ear to listen to your concerns, help you brainstorm solutions, and stand by your side through any legal proceedings or challenges you may face.
Seeking Legal Guidance
When facing such serious allegations, it is best to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side. A legal expert can help you understand your rights, how to deal with the legal process, and how to build a solid defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Legal guidance helps uphold your rights throughout the legal proceedings. An experienced attorney can provide valuable advice on how to handle interactions with law enforcement, what to expect during court appearances, and how to effectively present your case in front of a judge or jury.
They can also review all the evidence against you, identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and work towards securing the best possible outcome for your situation. By enlisting the help of a legal professional with expertise in sex trafficking defense, you can protect your future and your rights.
Conclusion
Protecting yourself from sex trafficking charges is important in today’s society. One can achieve this by gaining knowledge of the laws, securing online activities, building a reliable support system, and seeking legal guidance.
To stay safe and avoid any legal consequences, stay informed, be vigilant, and take proactive measures.