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Human trafficking is a serious felony in Louisiana

On Behalf of | Sep 17, 2015 | Firm News |

 

Human trafficking is a serious felony in Louisiana. Anyone charged with human trafficking should consider seeking the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

In Louisiana, human trafficking involves the transportation, solicitation, recruitment or enticement of another person by use of fraud, coercion or force to require the other person to provide forced labor or services. An essential element of the crime is that the accused must act knowingly in forcing the other person to provide services or labor. Additionally, it is illegal in Louisiana for a person to benefit knowingly from human trafficking, or to assist another in human trafficking.

The potential penalties for a person convicted of human trafficking are harsh, and may include a prison sentence of up to ten years, as well as a fine of up to $10,000. In the event the trafficking involves criminal sexual conduct or commercial sexual activity, a fine of up to $15,000, as well as a prison sentence of up to 20 years, may be imposed upon a conviction. Furthermore, if the person trafficked is under the age of 18, a defendant may face a fine of up to $25,000, as well as a prison sentence between five and 25 years, if convicted.

Allegations of human trafficking can damage a person’s reputation and should not be taken lightly. A conviction may carry long-term consequences and therefore an aggressive defense should be pursued. A person who has been accused of, or is being investigated for, human trafficking may wish to seek knowledgeable legal counsel.

Source: Louisiana State Legislature, “Louisiana Revised Statute 14:46.2“, accessed Sept. 13, 2015