Minnesota Sex-Trafficking Convictions Rise In 2013
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota Public Safety Department says sex-trafficking convictions have doubled in the past year.
The state report released Wednesday says convictions for solicitation and promotion of prostitution and sex trafficking rose to 63 in 2013 from 31 in 2012. The numbers were compiled from law enforcement agencies across Minnesota.
The state passed a victim-centered Safe Harbor Law in 2011. Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said that law enforcement officers and prosecutors are embracing the change and victims are more willing to tell their story because officials want to help them avoid the delinquency system.
Additional changes took effect in August to provide more resources for exploited youths.
The report says most perpetrators involved in human trafficking are never arrested and many are charged with different non-trafficking offenses.
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