People are becoming more and more aware of the occurrence of human trafficking in the U.S. including right here in New Jersey. The most recent news of human trafficking involves a Trenton man and a 16-year-old female. The Trenton defendant was arrested in mid-November by the Attorney General and State Police Superintendent, who announced that he was arrested on human trafficking charges.
Read more: 15 Arrested in Child Porn Bust in Monmouth County, NJ
New Jersey’s Strict Human Trafficking Laws
In an attempt to crackdown on human trafficking in the state, the New Jersey State Police and the Division of Criminal Justice Human Trafficking Unit have imposed serious laws and legal consequences for those convicted of human trafficking.
The defendant in this story will be met with first-degree human trafficking, second-degree facilitating human trafficking, first-degree promoting prostitution of a minor, and first-degree promoting organized street crime. These charges will likely lead to many years in jail. Other potential charges include up to 20-years in prison without parole, life in state prison, and legal fines of up to $200,00.
Additionally, prior convictions can lead to more severe charges. The defendant has previous weapons charges on record. In the same arrest, he also attempted to flee arrest, meaning that the prosecutor will likely try for maximum consequences.
Read more: How Long Does The State of New Jersey Have to Indict Someone?
Identifying and Reducing Human Trafficking
This story, while difficult, means that one less human trafficker is on the streets to prey on young children. The New Jersey State Police also has a Human Trafficking Unit. This unit is responsible for, and focuses on the prevention and identification of human trafficking in the state of New Jersey.
New Jersey residents can also help with this by reporting suspected cases. If you believe that someone is involved in human trafficking, report it. You can report it to 1-855-END-NJ-HT. It can also be helpful to follow the latest laws and rules from the New Jersey State Police.
Of course, defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty. In this case, the defendant has yet to be charged.
Read more: 4 Indicted on Human Trafficking, Sex Assault Charges in Trenton
Discuss Your Case With a Lawyer Today
Human trafficking consequences are harsh to protect underage boys and girls from being coerced into prostitution. If you are wrongfully dealing with charges, it is important to consider your legal options as soon as possible. Ignoring the charges will not make them go away. If convicted, you could spend many years behind bars as well as pay thousands of dollars in court fines.
A criminal record with human trafficking or prostitution on your record can also prevent you from finding employment, housing, or obtaining student loans. A criminal record of these charges can negatively affect your life. Whether you are dealing with these criminal charges, or another type of criminal charges, like weapons or attempting to flee arrest, it is important to talk with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
While there are defenses available, you need to consider your options now. It takes time to determine the details of your case and decide the best option.
Contact an Experienced East Windsor Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Criminal Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with criminal charges in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at the Davis Law Firm, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with criminal charges in Trenton, East Windsor, Ewing, Robbinsville, and throughout New Jersey. Call 609-587-9100 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 2653 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
