TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey is launching a broad campaign to combat human trafficking ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup matches, with state officials expanding enforcement operations, public awareness efforts and victim support programs.
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced the initiative Monday, highlighting a series of actions aimed at preventing traffickers from exploiting the international sporting event, which will bring eight World Cup matches to New Jersey.
“From the beginning of my tenure, I identified human trafficking as a major priority. In light of the World Cup, additional enforcement is taking place and support resources are available. Our efforts help survivors and victims while holding perpetrators of this crime accountable,” said Attorney General Davenport. “Each of us, working together in ways big and small, can end the nightmare that human trafficking victims endure day in and day out. And our efforts do not end with the World Cup; we will continue to do this work for survivors and victims — those who have shown the courage to come forward so law enforcement can act, bring traffickers to justice, and prevent further victimization.”
The Attorney General’s Office said the effort includes increased criminal investigations by the New Jersey State Police and Division of Criminal Justice Human Trafficking Units, victim outreach operations, expanded support services and specialized training for law enforcement officers.
State officials also are continuing efforts to identify trafficking victims and connect them with housing, counseling, medical care and legal services.
Among the initiatives is the Attorney General’s STAR program, a partnership with Covenant House New Jersey designed to help law enforcement identify young adults who may be trafficking victims and direct them toward support services instead of the criminal justice system.
The program focuses on individuals ages 18 to 24, a population officials say is particularly vulnerable to exploitation when experiencing homelessness or poverty.
The state also is increasing public awareness efforts by providing guidance and educational materials to licensed medical professionals, cosmetologists, hotel operators, massage businesses, online payment platforms and other industries that may encounter trafficking victims.
Training has additionally been provided to municipal fire inspectors, code enforcement officers, corrections personnel and New Jersey Racing Commission staff to help identify signs of labor and sex trafficking.
As part of the awareness campaign, the Attorney General’s Office partnered with the nonprofit organization It’s a Penalty to launch a public education initiative on June 1. The campaign includes advertisements, educational videos, reporting resources and training for frontline workers in World Cup host cities.
Officials also unveiled a World Cup information website featuring resources on recognizing and reporting suspected trafficking, as well as assistance programs available to survivors.
The Attorney General’s Office said the enhanced efforts build on years of expanded state enforcement and support programs aimed at preventing human trafficking and assisting victims throughout New Jersey.
