Sex Trafficking and Substance Use: Identifying High-Priority Needs Within the Criminal Justice System

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Criminology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Substance use disorder (SUD) is prevalent among sex trafficking victims.
• Traffickers may exploit or facilitate SUDs to control victims.
• Victims may use substances to cope with trauma, further complicating their situation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complex relationship between sex trafficking and SUDs.
• To identify challenges in victim identification, screening, and access to services.
• To inform victim-centered and trauma-informed responses.

Main Methods:

• Convened an online panel of subject-matter experts and criminal justice practitioners.
• Discussed the impact of SUDs on sex trafficking victim identification and legal/treatment access.
• Identified high-priority needs and potential solutions.

Main Results:

• The intersection of SUDs and sex trafficking creates significant barriers for victims.
• Law enforcement and prosecutors face challenges in developing cases against traffickers.
• Existing victim services are often inadequate for trafficking victims with SUDs.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of the nexus between sex trafficking and SUDs is crucial.
• There is a need for 21 high-priority solutions to address these intertwined issues.
• Implementing victim-centered, trauma-informed approaches is essential for this vulnerable population.