Welcome to my blog!
Since 2006 I have been responsible for managing the San Jose Police Department Human Trafficking Task Force. We are funded through a grant from the United Stated Department of Justice / Bureau of Justice Assistance. There are about 40 BJA-funded task forces throughout the United States (including task forces in Alaska and Hawaii), American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Human Trafficking is, simply, another name for slavery. The number of slaves in the world today is estimated to be as high as 27 million! To put this in perspective, consider that during the 400 years of the African slave trade an estimated 10 million people were enslaved. Today, slaves can be found in every corner of the world, and even in the most affluent neighborhoods of America.
I consider myself fortunate to be given the responsibility of managing our Task Force. Primarily because trafficking victims are perhaps the most disenfranchised people on earth. Many expect no better life than serving others. These people need our help.
Secondly, my involvement with the anti-human trafficking community has brought me into contact with some of the most dedicated and compassionate people I have ever met. They are truly inspiring!
Also, it has given me a renewed appreciation for the life we live, and how fortunate we are to live in a country that devotes so much money and energy to helping others – while asking for little (if anything) in return.
My role brings me into daily contact with Federal, State, and local law enforcement and social service agencies, NGOs (non-governmental organizations), faith-based organizations, academics, and others all committed to combat slavery. Today, my assignment is unique within law enforcement. With time, more people will become aware, more resources will be applied, and more victims will be rescued.
Raising public awareness and training individuals who may come into contact with trafficking victims are among the goals of the Task Force and Coalition. Hence, the blog. I’ll be writing about human trafficking cases, Federal and State laws, and training opportunities. I’ll also explore some of the policy issues related to trafficking. DISCLAIMER: I will not be addressing or commenting on any cases until they have been adjudicated or otherwise closed.
I smile everytime I hear someone say, “We don’t have a human trafficking problem here.” As you will see, it is everywhere. It is the greatest human rights violation in history.
Welcome to the blog.
John
