NCJ Number
242385
Date Published
March 2013
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This report to the the Texas Legislature examines the relationship between sexually oriented businesses (SOBs) and human trafficking across Texas and the Nation.
Abstract
This report suggests that there is overwhelming circumstantial evidence linking SOBs to human trafficking and other criminal enterprises. Findings suggest that the State, at minimum, must impose and enforce regulations that prevent minors from working in sexually oriented businesses; provide a model human trafficking training and awareness regime that local governments can mandate to ensure employees can recognize violations and victims; and support public awareness efforts to ensure patrons of legitimate businesses can identify victims and easily notify authorities. The State should also work to develop and implement: a standard definition for what qualifies as an SOB; a centralized, cost-effective program for identifying and tracking all SOBs actively operating in Texas; State regulatory oversight of sexually oriented businesses; and initiative to address and mitigate SOBs' secondary effects on neighborhoods and residences. 122 references