Definition of Human Trafficking per the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Human trafficking exists through force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sext act. Traffickers uses these means to lure their victims and force them into labor or commercial sexual exploitation. They look for people who are susceptible for a variety of reasons, including psychological or emotional vulnerability, economic hardship, lack of social safety net, natural disaster, or political instability.
Definition of sex trafficking per State Law 787.06(2)(d), F.S. Sex trafficking is defined as a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud or coercion or in which the
person induced to perform such act is under 18. Commercial sex acts include, but are not limited to prostitution and/or pornography as a means for the
perpetrator to make money. The mere fact the victim is a child and the act meets the definition of a commercial sex act, makes the child a victim.
Florida Safe Harbor Act
In 2012, Florida passed House Bill 99, also known as the Florida Safe Harbor Act. This legislation allows for minors to be deemed as dependent instead of delinquent as it gives law enforcement the discretion to either arrest or deliver the minor to a short term safe house, if available. In 2016, House Bill 7141 expanded the provisions of the Florida Safe Harbor Act by requiring the Department to develop or adopt a screening instrument for the identification of sexually exploited children, service planning and placement. In addition, staff such as child protective investigators and case managers are required to have specialized
training prior to working with minors that have been sexually exploited. Lastly, it provided the minimums standards to certify a foster home or group home desiring to care for sexually exploited children.
Supply and Demand
Slavery thrives because of demand. A buyer fuels the market with their money while a trafficker/pimp
exploits victims (including both girls, boys, men and women who are bought and sold for profit) to earn
revenue from buyers. Victims are found through various ways and means including social media or
networks, community neighborhoods, clubs, bars or restaurants, the internet and even at their own school.
Victims of human trafficking can be U.S. citizens, foreign nationals, women, men, children, and LGBTQ
individuals. Vulnerable populations are frequently targeted by traffickers, including runaway and
homeless youth, as well as victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, war, or social discrimination.