WINK News: USF report shows over 700,000 trafficked in Florida, ranks third in nation

A new report from the University of South Florida is shedding light on the extensive issue of human trafficking in Florida.The findings reveal alarming statistics about the scale of the problem in the state.

The 2024 State Report on Human Trafficking, commissioned by the state and developed by USF, estimates that more than 500,000 people were victims of labor trafficking last year. Additionally, another 200,000 were exploited in sex trafficking, many of whom were children.

Florida’s growing population, year-round tourism, airports, and industries like agriculture and entertainment make it a prime target for traffickers.

Consequently, Florida consistently ranks third highest in the country for human trafficking cases.

However, the report also highlights a growing statewide response. This includes stronger laws, more prosecutions, and increased coordination between law enforcement, nonprofits, and government agencies.

“The reason that people cannot see human trafficking, sex trafficking in particular, is because many of these women and girls, and sometimes boys and men, they are sold for sex online,” said Linda Oberhaus of The Shelter for Abused Women & Children. “So if you want to help victims of human trafficking, fund law enforcement officers who specifically are charged with going online and finding these victims.”

The report follows a new state law passed two years ago requiring USF’s anonymous trafficking tip lab to collect and analyze data across the state.

This effort aims to better understand the problem and develop more effective solutions.

Here’s the link to the complete study by the University of South Florida.