Understanding and Improving Law Enforcement Investigations of Human Trafficking: Focus on Labor Trafficking

Authors

Daniela Peterka-Benton, Montclair State UniversityFollow
Alison Boak
Christabelle Robinson, Montclair State UniversityFollow
Madison Kranis, Montclair State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

8-2024

Abstract

The National Expert Roundtable on Labor Trafficking brought together survivors, prosecutors, law enforcement agents, advocates, and service providers to address systemic gaps in labor trafficking investigations. The discussion revealed that labor trafficking cases remain under-recognized and inadequately prosecuted compared to sex trafficking. Key recommendations include: developing multi-disciplinary task forces, improving screening tools and victim interviews, integrating survivor-led peer support, and strengthening partnerships between police and service providers. The report emphasizes victim-centered, culturally competent methodologies and enhanced training to ensure survivors’ well-being alongside justice.

Book Publisher

Montclair State University Global Center on Human Trafficking

MSU Digital Commons Citation

Peterka-Benton, Daniela; Boak, Alison; Robinson, Christabelle; and Kranis, Madison, "Understanding and Improving Law Enforcement Investigations of Human Trafficking: Focus on Labor Trafficking" (2024). Articles, Presentations, and Reports. 1.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/human_traff_ctr_pubs/1