A Comprehensive Analysis of Labor Trafficking Cases in the United States: An 11-Year Review

Abstract

Despite increasing attention to human trafficking since the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, knowledge gaps about labor trafficking remain. Issues such as legal inconsistencies, sector-specific vulnerabilities, and limited training for stakeholders hinder effective prosecution, often leading to outcomes that inadequately address the gravity of these crimes. While research has focused primarily on victims, less attention has been given to perpetrators. This exploratory study examines labor trafficking arrests from 2011 to 2022, using descriptive analysis to profile traffickers, assess control methods, and explore trends in criminal prosecution. Findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, improved data collection, and standardized legal frameworks to better address labor trafficking in the U.S.