Gerald D. Vick Human Trafficking Task Force

Under this award, the city of St. Paul will further develop and operate a victim-centered human trafficking task force in conjunction with the U. S. Attorney's Office, federal law enforcement, and the Office for Victims of Crime Human Trafficking Services. The goal of this program is to identify and rescue victims of trafficking through a victim centered, proactive investigation strategy.

The city of Saint Paul will use its FY 2008 award to support the Gerald D. Vick Human Trafficking Task Force (HTTF). The HTTF is comprised of three federal agencies, four local law enforcement agencies, and four federal and local prosecutors' offices. The goals of the HTTF are to further develop and expand the task force's membership, continue to assess the local trafficking problem and increase the number of victims saved, conduct a public awareness campaign targeting immigrant communities, and implement ongoing multi-disciplinary training for law enforcement and service providers. An additional goal is to provide services to eight certified victims of human trafficking who were identified by the service provider, Breaking Free. Funds will pay for personnel and overtime costs, supplies, various contractual items, and travel for trainings and conferences.

NCA/NCF