Ron Freitas
District Attorney

District Attorney
Human Trafficking Prevention and Prosecution

January is Human Trafficking & Slavery Prevention Month

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office and Family Justice Center stand united in the fight against human trafficking.

Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery in which individuals are recruited, transported, transferred, harbored, or received for the purpose of exploitation. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit people for various purposes

There are several forms of human trafficking, including:

Sex Trafficking: This involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, or obtain people for the purpose of commercial sexual exploitation, including prostitution, pornography, and sexual performance.

Labor Trafficking: This involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, or obtain people for labor or services, such as domestic work, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Human trafficking is a global problem that affects people of all ages, genders, and nationalities. It can occur in any country and can involve both domestic and international trafficking. Victims of human trafficking can be men, women, or children, and they may come from any country or socio-economic background. However, traffickers often target vulnerable populations, such as refugees, undocumented immigrants, and people living in poverty.

I am not for sale.Human trafficking is a serious crime and a violation of human rights. It is estimated that millions of people around the world are victims of human trafficking. It is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach to prevention, protection, and prosecution.

In the United States, the National Human Trafficking Hotline receives reports of thousands of cases of human trafficking each year. In 2020, the hotline received 24,737 reports of human trafficking, with the majority of cases involving sex trafficking (83%) and labor trafficking (16%). The hotline also reported that the most common industries involved in human trafficking cases in the U.S. include hospitality, agriculture, and manufacturing. It is important to note that these statistics likely underrepresent the true scale of the problem, as human trafficking is often hidden and victims may be afraid to come forward or may not know how to get help. If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, it is important to report it to the authorities or to a trusted organization that can provide help and support.

Myths and Facts:

FACT: Human trafficking occurs globally, including in developed countries. It is a widespread issue that can affect any community, regardless of its economic status or location - this includes San Joaquin County. Awareness and prevention efforts are crucial to address this crime locally and internationally.

FACT: Traffickers often use psychological manipulation, coercion, and physical threats to control their victims. Many victims fear retaliation against themselves or their families, hindering their ability to escape. Understanding the complexities of victim coercion is crucial for providing effective support.

FACT: Human trafficking is a complex and persistent issue that requires ongoing efforts from governments, law enforcement, communities, and individuals. Combating trafficking involves addressing root causes, raising awareness, implementing effective laws, and providing comprehensive support for survivors.

FACT: Many victims may not recognize themselves as such due to manipulation, fear, or a lack of awareness about their situation. Outreach programs, education, and support services are crucial to identifying and assisting victims who may not come forward voluntarily.


The San Joaquin County Family Justice Center
, is a resource for victims of Human Trafficking and other forms of violence, regardless of if you have made a crime report. The FJC provides a safe and welcoming space where victims can access a range of services which may include counseling, advocacy, and support services. If you or someone you know is a victim of Human Trafficking, please reach out to the FJC for help.

Did you know? We offer free training on Human Trafficking led by FJC Program Manager, Alexis Wilbur, in partnership with Community Medical Center. This eye-opening session covers the basics of human trafficking and delves deep into the cultural aspects, the experiences of victims, and the mindset of purchasers as well as a survivor story.

To request this impactful presentation, please submit a speaker request by clicking on the link in the sidebar.

Note: This presentation is graphic in nature, and we want to ensure age-appropriate education. Please include the age range in your request so that we can tailor the message for the audience.

Speaker Request Form

Do You Need Help?

If you are in danger, call 911.

San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:
(209) 468-2600

San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office:
(209) 468-2400

San Joaquin County Victim Witness Division:
(209) 468-2500
24-HOUR HELP

Chest of Hope Helpline:
(209) 259-5552

PREVAIL Services
24-hour Sexual Assault Helpline:
(209) 465-4997

National Human Trafficking Resource Center:
(888) 373-7888

National Suicide Prevention Hotline:
(800) 273-8255

Crisis Text Line:
Text HOME to 66746