Child sex trafficking has grown alongside an explosion of internet marketplaces.
Federal, state, and local authorities have announced the formation of a task force to fight human and child sex trafficking in the state.
Partners in the project include Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, the US Department of Labor, CT State Police, 14 local police departments as well as the Connecticut Department of Children and Families and the International Institute of Connecticut.
U.S. Attorney Deirdre Daly said child sex trafficking has grown alongside an explosion of internet marketplaces where sex and children can be bought and sold.
“Its become increasingly clear that human trafficking, and particularly sex trafficking of minors, this cruel victimization of defenseless young girls and even in some cases, boys, is a form of modern day slavery. It's happening throughout the country and its also happening here in Connecticut," Daly said.
Daly said it's hard to measure the exact state numbers, but in recent years, her office has prosecuted more than 20 individuals for sex trafficking offenses, most involving minors.
“This Monday a defendant was sentenced to 17 and a half years in prison for trafficking a 16 and 17-year-old girl in Milford and Windsor Locks," Daly said.
DCF data show about 80 referrals last year. Most girls were either being trafficked or there was a suspicion of trafficking. The numbers this year appear to be higher.
The new Connecticut Human Trafficking Task Force is taking a multi-pronged approach to the problem -- starting with awareness. People can call a hotline if they see what they believe to be child sex trafficking: 888-373-7888. Trafficking victims can text BEFREE for immediate help.
Law enforcement will also vigorously work to identify and prosecute pimps, and try to shut down forced labor and the child sex trade in Connecticut.
