Human trafficking is a $32 billion industry affecting more than 12.3 million people across the world. It is a real problem in our country today that knows no boundaries, and impacts people of all ages, races and ethnicities.
Even before the Super Bowl, New Jersey is a prime location for domestic and international human trafficking, with its large population and proximity to New York City. New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the U.S. and has the third highest proportion of foreign born residents at nearly 20 percent.
Since September 2005, 193 cases of human trafficking have been reported to the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, including 93 victims trafficked for labor, 74 for sex, and 26 for both labor and sex trafficking.
According to a 2013 study from the Polaris Project, an organization that ranks human trafficking laws, New Jersey is one of only two states with “perfect scores” with tough laws that punish traffickers and support survivors.
Governor Christie made the crime of child exploitation a key priority, dating back to his days as U.S. Attorney. In fact, two of the largest pornography cases during this time originated in New Jersey under his watch:
Over the last four years, Governor Christie and his Administration have acted aggressively to combat and prevent human trafficking, including:
The Governor recently joined Mrs. Cindy McCain for a discussion on combating the horrific practice at the McCain Institute in Phoenix. Mrs. McCain serves as the co-chair of the Arizona Governor’s Task Force on Human Trafficking.
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