A recent human trafficking operation in Florida, called "Operation Summer Shield," resulted in 148 arrests and the recovery of seven victims, including two juvenile girls aged 17. Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the importance of the operation, explaining that his team took a proactive approach ahead of the summer months when children have more free time and spend more time online. Chronister noted that detectives actively monitored the internet, dark web, and local establishments such as hotels and entertainment venues to identify trafficking activities.
The operation has been praised for its success in dismantling trafficking rings and protecting vulnerable individuals. State Attorney Suzy Lopez reaffirmed Florida's strict stance on human trafficking, highlighting that the mandatory minimum sentence for those convicted of human trafficking is life imprisonment.
Additionally, certain establishments are required to post human trafficking awareness signs, following guidelines like those set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), to help raise awareness and assist potential victims in seeking help
Florida Human Traffic Poster - Want to help put an end to human trafficking in your community? Consider placing one of these posters in your business where its visible to the public. Use Code: summershield for 25% off (expires Oct 31, 2024).
Per USDOT
787.29. Human trafficking public awareness signs
(1) The Department of Transportation shall display a public awareness sign developed under
subsection (4) in every rest area, turnpike service plaza, weigh station, primary airport, passenger rail station, and welcome center in the state which is open to the public.
(2) Emergency rooms shall display a public awareness sign developed under subsection (4) in
the emergency rooms at general acute care hospitals.
(3) The employer at each of the following establishments shall display a public awareness sign developed under subsection (4) in a conspicuous location that is clearly visible to the public and employees of the establishment:
(a) A strip club or other adult entertainment establishment.
(b) A business or establishment that offers massage or bodywork services for compensation that is not owned by a health care practitioner regulated pursuant to chapter 456 and defined in s.456.001.
(4) The required public awareness sign must be at least 8.5 inches by 11 inches in size, must be printed in at least a 16-point type, and must state substantially the following in English and Spanish:
“If you or someone you know is being forced to engage in an activity and cannot leave--whether it is prostitution, housework, farm work, factory work, retail work, restaurant work, or any other activity--call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1-888-373-7888 or text INFO or HELP to 233-733 to access help and services. Victims of slavery and human trafficking are protected under United States and Florida law.”
(5) The county commission may adopt an ordinance to enforce subsection (3). A violation of
subsection (3) is a noncriminal violation and punishable by a fine only as provided in s. 775.083.
Resources:
- US DOT Compendium of Human Trafficking Awareness State and Territory Laws
- FloridaHealth.gov Human Trafficking Resource
