Poster #20 - Assessing the Impact of State Human Trafficking Task Force on Sex Trafficking in South Carolina

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

Sex trafficking remains a persistent global issue as well as in the United States. However, the research on the effectiveness of various initiatives to combat human trafficking is lacking. Existing studies highlight ongoing challenges such as high case attrition rates, largely due to underreporting and difficulties in case identification. This study aims to assess whether the development of the South Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force (HTTF) has influenced the prevalence of sex trafficking cases in the state. This study will utilize a quasi-=experimental design assessing National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) data to determine if state-level task forces (HTTF) impacts sex trafficking case detection and reporting. This presentation provides insights into the effectiveness of targeted anti-trafficking efforts, informing future policy and intervention strategies.

Authors

• Lekendra Kidd, University of South Carolina

• Hunter Boehme, University of South Carolina