Identifying Victims of Labor Trafficking in the United States

• In Event: The Organization, Operation and Victimization of Labor Trafficking in the United States

Abstract

Although human trafficking is increasingly recognized as a serious social problem, very little is known about the nature of labor trafficking victimization in the United States. Previous research finds that labor trafficking cases often elude law enforcement, whose agents often prioritize the identification and investigation of sex trafficking cases. This study seeks to better understand the victimization experiences of persons involved in forced labor. Using data gathered from four regions of the United States, this research explores the characteristics of identified labor trafficking victims and the perpetrators associated with their victimization across a range of venues of exploitive labor. Reviews of victim service records, in combination with interviews of legal advocates, victim service providers, law enforcement, and victims illuminate the processes involved in their recruitment, exploitation, escape and recovery from the trafficking situation.

Authors

• Amy Farrell, Northeastern University

• Rebecca Pfeffer, University of Houston - Downtown