Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, flanked by state lawmakers, law enforcement officials and advocates at a ceremony at Washington Dulles International Airport, signed legislation on Tuesday intended to combat human trafficking, including stiffer penalties for offenders and more resources for crime victims.
“Unfortunately, the subjugation of human beings who are forced against their will into labor or worse, into the sex trade, is not something relegated to the history books or to underdeveloped third-world counties,” McDonnell said. “What we’re talking about here is a vile, despicable offense.”
Virginia ranked among the top 10 states for human trafficking report calls received in the National Human Trafficking Resource Center’s call center between December 2007 and December 2010.
One bill, carried by Sen. Stephen Newman, R-Lynchburg, requires the Department of Criminal Justice Services to advise law enforcement agencies on human trafficking issues.
Another, sponsored by Del. Tim Hugo, R-Fairfax, and Del. Vivian Watts, D-Fairfax, makes the abduction of a minor for manufacturing child pornography or prostitution a Class 2 felony — punishable by 20 years to life in prison.
“We are making a clear statement that those who participate in human trafficking are not welcome in Virginia,” said Hugo, noting that Centreville, which he represents, is a hot spot for such activity.
A third bill, sponsored by Del. Adam Ebbin, D-Alexandria, requires the Department of Social Services to craft a service plan for victims of human trafficking.
“Trafficking victims are often beaten, raped, threatened, manipulated and locked up,” said Ebbin. “It’s important that when victims are rescued, we are able to get them the aid they need to start the recovery process.”
