Human Trafficking Lawsuit

Sex trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion to engage in commercial sex acts against their will. Victims often include vulnerable populations such as runaways, individuals experiencing homelessness, or those disconnected from their families.

Not everyone realizes when they are being sex trafficked. Human traffickers manipulate victims into believing they are choosing to participate in commercial sex. Some signs that you've been trafficked include:

• Not being able to leave your home or job
• Not being allowed to speak for yourself
• Not having control over your identification documents
• Not having control over your personal possessions
• Being in debt to your "boss"
• Frequently being moved or not being allowed to travel alone

Identifying potential signs of sex trafficking can help protect loved ones from exploitation. Some red flags include:

• An unstable living situation, living in poverty, and or abuse of drugs and alcohol.
• Previous experience with sexual abuse or domestic violence.
• A sudden change in behavior, such as increased anxiety, fearfulness, or submission around certain individuals.
• Limited control over personal identification, money, or daily movements.
• Unexplained wealth.
• Frequent stays at hotels, sometimes with different individuals or in multiple rooms booked under the same name.
• Unexplained physical injuries, signs of malnutrition, or branding tattoos indicating ownership.
• Inconsistent or rehearsed explanations about their whereabouts or personal history.
• Constant supervision by someone who controls their conversations and interactions.
• Working excessive hours in poor conditions, with no ability to leave or seek help.

Yes, businesses, especially hotels and motels, can be held liable if they knowingly, or should have known, allowed sex trafficking to occur on their property. Several major hotel chains, including Red Roof Inn, Motel 6, and Wyndham, have faced lawsuits alleging they profited from and failed to prevent trafficking activities. These cases argue that by harboring individuals for the purpose of sex trade and benefiting financially, these establishments violated federal laws.

To file a lawsuit under the TVPRA, the following factors are considered:

• Age of the victim: If the victim was a minor at the time of the initial trafficking, this is a significant factor.
• Trafficker's conviction: While not mandatory, a conviction of the trafficker can strengthen the case.
• Evidence of trafficking: This includes records such as hotel stay logs, the names under which rooms were booked, and any other documentation supporting the occurrence of trafficking.
• Victim's criminal history: Crimes involving dishonesty may impact the case but do not eliminate the possibility of filing a lawsuit.
• Duration of stay: The length of time the victim was trafficked at a particular facility can be relevant.

Typical human trafficking lawsuit settlement amounts can vary widely and depend on factors such as:

• The severity of the trafficking.
• The number of defendants involved.
• The extent of harm suffered by the victim.

An attorney at James Rolshouse Law Firm PLLC can offer personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

In recent years, there has been an increase in lawsuits filed against businesses alleged to have facilitated or profited from sex trafficking. For instance, over 1,700 plaintiffs have sought legal action against major hotel chains, accusing them of prioritizing profits over the safety of individuals subjected to sexual exploitation within their premises.

In the past 18 years, trafficking survivors have secured over $255 million through civil damages and public settlements.

Successful lawsuits can result in:

• Financial compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Holding perpetrators accountable, ensuring justice for victims.
• Legal consequences for businesses and individuals complicit in trafficking.
• Policy changes that improve protections and prevent future trafficking.
• Increased awareness that helps identify and stop trafficking operations.

To get started with a sex trafficking lawsuit, contact our experienced attorneys at James Rolshouse Law Firm PLLC for a free consultation. We'll take the time to listen to your story, review your information, and determine if you qualify to file a claim.