State Sen. Dinniman Continues Fight Against Human Trafficking

It's likely shocking to the average resident, but most people have probably met, or at least seen, a victim of human trafficking at some point right here in Pennsylvania.

State Senator Andy Dinniman (D-Chester) is trying to bring increased awareness to the issue. He spoke at length about the issue Wednesday, urging increased measures to both support law enforcement and to nurture and care for victims.

“Pennsylvania has taken important steps to end the scourge of human trafficking," Dinniman said. "But there is more work to be done and we can succeed in doing it and putting an end to this modern-day slave trade by bringing together legislators, social service professionals, and law enforcement as we have done here today."

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According to Krista Bower, executive director of the PPA, human trafficking alone victimizes more than 5 million children worldwide and produces over $150 billion in illegal profits. People are aware of its evil and its size and scope, but “we can and must do more,” she said in a statement.

There have been numerous incidents of human trafficking prosecuted in the Philadelphia area over the past several years. Efforts continue to combat trafficking on many fronts. Drivers license centers are being trained to observe signs of human trafficking, and to report them. Truckers are being briefed on things they should look for on the road.

Dinniman previously helped pass Senate Bill 75, which helped to define human trafficking in more clear terms. He is now backing Senate Bill 554, which would protect juvenile victims of human trafficking from prosecution of other crimes. It also mandates further training for law enforcement in handling calls involving sexually abused children.

“We have a duty and a moral obligation not only to give law enforcement personnel the tools they need to bring human traffickers to justice but also to help victims begin and stay on the path to recovery,” Dinniman said.

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Senate Bill 554 has now been referred to the House.

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Image via State Sen. Andy Dinniman's Office