The Fight Against Human Trafficking in Pennsylvania
The battle against human trafficking continues to be an uphill struggle in Pennsylvania, where experts and advocates are combining forces to combat this hidden crime. Kate Price, a survivor turned sociologist, is at the forefront of this effort, leveraging her personal experiences and academic background to educate law enforcement and support victims.
Price’s haunting past of being forced into sex work by her father as a child has shaped her path. Now, as an associate research scientist at the Wellesley Centers for Women, she plays a pivotal role in teaching others how to recognize and address signs of trafficking. Her memoir, “This Happened to Me: A Reckoning,” delves into her journey and recovery through therapy with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, famed for his book “The Body Keeps the Score,” which also features Price’s story.
Training Law Enforcement in NEPA
Recent events, such as the NEPA Task Force Against Human Trafficking’s conference, have highlighted the need for collaboration among law enforcement, social workers, and legal professionals. Wyoming County District Attorney Joseph Peters emphasized the importance of these gatherings, stating, “This is a unique crime … we know in law enforcement how to go after, investigate [and] prosecute cartels [and criminal] leaders.”
Statistics show a concerning trend, with 1,432 human-trafficking offenses filed in Pennsylvania over the past five years. Emphasizing the prevalence of child victims, Peters noted the necessity of tools to aid young survivors in overcoming trauma and building healthy lives.
The Online Threat and Highway Risks
Peters explained that most cases don’t align with Hollywood depictions of abductions; instead, they often start online. Predators groom children, manipulating them into secrecy and exploitation. Price’s insights reveal that familial trafficking frequently occurs along major highways like Interstates 80 and 81, facilitated by transient buyers such as truckers.
Attorney Tom Mosca, founder of the task force, pointed out Pennsylvania’s strategic location between major trafficking hubs like New York and Ohio, increasing its vulnerability to trafficking activities.
Understanding the Link to Domestic Violence
Marissa Buatti of Safe Monroe shed light on the connection between human trafficking and domestic violence, both rooted in controlling behavior. Victims often exhibit signs of isolation, substance abuse, and physical abuse, making public awareness crucial in identifying and supporting them.
Safe Monroe received over 1,000 calls last year, illustrating the ongoing need for resources and support in combating these intertwined issues. The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that domestic violence affects a significant portion of the population, further highlighting the need for vigilance and intervention.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Goals
The task force’s annual conference serves as a platform for exchanging vital information and shaping policies to safeguard survivors. Educators like Carrie Andrews and Jane Kabuiku are integrating this knowledge into their teaching to break the cycle of trauma and help inmates reintegrate into society.
Price aims to expand her impact by conducting a nationwide study on human trafficking, with potential funding from the Stoneleigh Foundation. Her message of hope and healing resonates with many, as she stated, “Healing is possible.”
For those suspecting human trafficking, the state police hotline is available at 888-292-1919, with email tips accepted at tips@pa.gov. In emergencies, calling 911 is advised.
