Trumball News

State Representative Nick Santucci and Josh Williams have introduced the Human Trafficking Prevention Act in Ohio to address the state's high number of reported cases of human trafficking. The legislation aims to increase criminal penalties for human trafficking, kidnapping, and abduction, reflecting Ohio's commitment to holding these perpetrators accountable and seeking justice for their victims.

Currently, Ohio law only allows for a prison term of 10 to 15 years for individuals convicted of human trafficking. Recognizing the severity of the issue, Santucci states, "We have a human trafficking problem in Ohio. Our message is clear: if you're involved in human trafficking and come to our state, we will find you and send you to prison for life." This legislation seeks to demonstrate Ohio's efforts in combating human trafficking by increasing penalties up to life imprisonment.

Ohio ranks fourth in the nation in terms of reported cases of human trafficking, with over 97% of those cases involving sex trafficking. In response to this alarming statistic, the Ohio House has prioritized cracking down on human trafficking and increasing awareness. They have codified state law to establish Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 11 each year. The introduction of the Human Trafficking Prevention Act signifies a shift from awareness to action.

Josh Williams emphasizes the moral obligation to rescue victims and ensure that traffickers and abductors face a sentence that reflects the trauma they have caused. Williams states, "I believe that we have a moral duty to rescue these victims and ensure that traffickers and abductors face an equitable sentence that reflects the trauma they have caused to the victims."

The Human Trafficking Prevention Act does not only focus on age but expands penalties for victims under the age of 18. Currently, penalties apply when the victims are 13 years old or younger. Under the proposed legislation, anyone under the age of 18 would be included. This expansion recognizes the vulnerability of minors and seeks to provide them with greater protection under the law.

The legislation outlines specific penalties based on the age of the victim. If the victim is an adult, the minimum prison term would be fifteen years, with a maximum term of life imprisonment. However, if the victim is a minor, the minimum prison term would increase to twenty-five years, with a maximum term of life imprisonment. This differentiation acknowledges the heightened vulnerability and impact on minors.

The Human Trafficking Prevention Act is currently awaiting assignment to a House committee, indicating the initial steps towards potential implementation. Ohio's commitment to combating human trafficking and seeking justice for victims is evident through this legislation. By increasing penalties, Ohio aims to send a clear message to traffickers that their actions will not be tolerated and that the state will do everything possible to protect its residents from this heinous crime.

To learn more, click on this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/nick-santucci/news/santucci-introduce-legislation-increasing-penalties-against-human-trafficking-118146