Human trafficking is the illegal underground trade which involves taking people captive and then selling them for other purposes, such as to work for free or to engage in prostitution. Labor trafficking is the specific crime of smuggling humans and forcing them to work for little to no pay in heinous working conditions.

Last month, an Ohio couples was found guilty of enslaving a woman and a child at their home. According to reports, the couples had a cognitively disabled woman and her child in their home. They forced the mother and child to eat dog food and threatened them with a large snake. The prosecutors told jurors that the couple threatened to kill the enslaved mother if she did not clean their apartment, go to the store for them, care for their numerous pets, and participate in sex acts when wanted. The victims were allegedly forced to wear dog collars and crawl on the floor.

The prosecution also reported that the slave-owners frequently injured their victims and took them to the hospital so that they could get strong prescription painkillers. After receiving these painkillers, they would use them to satisfy their own drug habits.

This display of human trafficking shocked individuals who watched the trial and sobered them. If you have been charged with any affiliation with human trafficking, you could be severely injured. In the United States, individuals who participate in human trafficking can be sent to prison and fined, People can be prosecuted for this crime whether they attempt to commit a trafficking offense, participate in a trafficking offense, or organize or direct others who commit human trafficking.

Also, anyone who owns slaves in their home for the purpose of sexual or labor trafficking can be severely penalized. Don't hesitate to contact a local law firm today if you have been charged with affiliation in a human trafficking operation. An attorney may be able to help you with your case and navigate the difficulties of the accusation. Call immediately to get more information.