Our attorneys handle two kinds of sex trafficking cases. We defend people accused of sex trafficking and we sue on behalf of victims of sex trafficking. We proudly play both sides, representing both the accused and the victimized with dignity and respect. If you or someone you love has been accused of sex trafficking or if you have been coerced into engaging in a commercial sex act, please read on and feel free to contact our office to discuss your particular situation.
Sex trafficking cases are usually prosecuted in the federal courts. Under federal law, sex trafficking consists of using “force, fraud or coercion” to get someone to engage in a commercial sex act, i.e. sexual conduct in return for money or something else of value. Even if there is no force, fraud, or coercion, getting involved with a minor (anyone under 18) who is engaged in a commercial sex act is also a crime.
What do we mean by “getting involved with”? The federal sex trafficking law defines sex trafficking very broadly punishing anyone who “recruits, entices, harbors, transports, provides, obtains, advertises, maintains, patronizes, or solicits” another person for commercial sex. So that means the owner of a strip club or the manager of a massage parlor could be prosecuted if the workers are coerced or forced into engaging in sex acts. If you are being investigated for sex trafficking, it is essential to hire a competent attorney immediately and not to speak to law enforcement until a lawyer has thoroughly assessed your situation. Penalties for sex trafficking are very, very severe–including mandatory minimum prison terms if the victims are under 18. At the same time, the investigative techniques available to federal investigators are highly intrusive. If you are investigated for sex trafficking, assume that law enforcement has access to your cell phone, your online accounts including emails, video surveillance, controlled phone calls, financial records, tax records and much more.
The other side of the coin is that the federal statute contains a powerful provision to help victims of sex trafficking. If you are forced to work at a strip club or massage parlor, or sexually assaulted at one while working voluntarily, you may be entitled to compensation against the owner, the landlord, the patrons or others benefitting from your sexual exploitation. If you find yourself or someone you love hurt by sex trafficking, please call our office to determine if there is a viable lawsuit against your trafficker. While past results are no guarantee or future outcomes, our office has won millions of dollars for women and children who have been illegally sexually exploited.