What to Know About the Effects of “Operation PA STRIKE” on Human Trafficking Cases

No country is immune from the devastating consequences of human trafficking. Pennsylvanian lawmakers are now fighting harder than ever to eradicate such crimes, thanks to “Operation PA STRIKE.” While it’s a noble cause, the increased furor could lead to false accusations or unfair consequences for state residents.

Have you been charged with human trafficking? Such an intense yet delicate situation demands the highest quality in legal services. That’s where the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team comes in. Find out how they can help by calling them today at 888.535.3686 or submitting a contact form.

What is “Operation PA STRIKE”?

Funded through the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, Operation PA STRIKE is an initiative headed by the Human Trafficking Section of the Attorney General’s Office. Using a one-time grant of $10 million, the staff works with the Salvation Army and Justice at Work (JaW) to tackle the problem of human trafficking on multiple fronts.

Among its most important responsibilities is to find and investigate human traffickers and their organizations. By hiring more staff and deploying task forces specializing in searches and rescues, the STRIKE initiative is helping more victims leave their situations, reunite with their loved ones, and receive support in moving on with their lives.

However, the STRIKE initiative also seeks to prevent vulnerable demographics from becoming trafficked in the first place. It partners with various local organizations to spread awareness and improve the social and/or economic environments that most commonly lead to trafficking.

What This Means for Defendants in Human Trafficking Cases

The effect of the STRIKE initiative is essentially increased vigilance, which can easily turn into hypervigilance, especially in such a charged context. You might find yourself unjustly accused of human trafficking due to paranoia, misunderstandings, or hyperbolic interpretations of your actions.

Also, many people who become involved in human trafficking are forced into it through threats, intimidation, extortion, manipulation, or other factors largely outside their control. Even kidnapping victims can be coerced into perpetuating human trafficking.

In its eagerness to punish and eliminate the whole industry, Pennsylvanian courts are prone to overcompensating for human trafficking crimes by convicting innocent people or handing out disproportionately harsh sentences to defendants who, to some degree, are often victims themselves.

In any case, being charged with human trafficking can completely upend your present and future. An allegation alone can destroy your relationships, housing options, and vocational opportunities. It’s not only dehumanizing, but counterproductive to the STRIKE’s goal to end human trafficking. After all, most people turn to it out of desperation, and who’s more desperate than someone who’s friendless and can’t get a home or job? You and the community need and deserve better.

Contact the LLF Law Firm About Human Trafficking Allegations

Human trafficking is a serious crime that requires an equally serious defense. The LLF Criminal Defense Team has the knowledge and determination to meet the challenge. With their passion and proven strategies, they’ll ensure that the court sees more than the allegations against you. Schedule a consultation today by calling 888.535.3686 or filling out this contact form.