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Human Trafficking Being Debated in Annapolis, Maryland, USA

Law enforcement officials say one of the fastest growing crimes in Maryland and the entire nation is the forced labor and sex trade of human beings known as human trafficking.

As Pat Warren reports, Annapolis politicians are now working on legislation to crack down on this illegal practice. Maryland's State House and Senate are considering bills that would increase penalties for those convicted of the crime that has been called a form of "modern-day slavery."

Law enforcement agents say in most cases, women and girls--often immigrants and/or undocumented workers--are virtually held captive for profit in the sex trade. One Maryland woman who chose to remain unidentified, told Eyewitness News she was taken out of state against her will and forced into prostitution.

While it is a felony to have sex with a minor in Maryland, it is only a misdemeanor to profit from providing the out to others. Baltimore City State's Attorney Patricia Jessamy is pushing for passage of a bill to make human trafficking and forced labor a felony.

But first, Jessamy will have to convince lawmakers that the existing law is inadequate. "You think they outlawed slavery over 200 years ago, well believe me it's going on right under our noses here in Maryland," said Jessamy.

Currently in Maryland, most cases of human trafficking rely on federal prosecution. Those who support a new state bill think Maryland law is letting down the victims and families who have been abused. The latest effort to pass new human trafficking legislation is the third time lawmakers have tried to get a bill through the House Judiciary Committee.

Some policymakers believe the existing law against extortion can and should be applied to human trafficking. Jessamy's office is also planning training sessions to educate local police and prosecutors on the issue of human trafficking.

Adapted from: Pat Warren. "Human Trafficking Being Debated In Annapolis." 8 March 2007.