Suffolk Reporter

Chairs Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden), Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh (R,C-Ballston), Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio (R,C-Riverhead), and Assemblyman Ed Flood (R,C-Port Jefferson) held the first meeting of the Assembly Minority Conference Task Force on Human Trafficking on "U.N. World Day Against Trafficking in Persons."

Human trafficking cases are difficult to quantify, as many victims remain unknown. According to the latest available numbers in 2021, the New York State Interagency Task Force on Human Trafficking reported 295 confirmed cases, while the National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 404 cases involving 639 victims. Most of these victims were sex trafficked. More recent numbers are unavailable, as the Interagency Task Force has not issued an annual report since 2021, which is required by law.

"Human trafficking is a crime with so many silent victims who are lost with little hope. For the hundreds who are identified in our state annually, how many more remain undiscovered? As a Task Force, we will explore, with the help of experts and stakeholders, what more New York can do to combat human trafficking and support survivors of these horrific crimes. The many perspectives shared around the state will help us develop legislation and policy recommendations to ensure more people are helped and do not fall victim to human trafficking," said Maher.

"Our Task Force on Human Trafficking is as much a fact-finding mission as it is to raise awareness within our communities that these crimes against vulnerable women and children exist right here in our state. Hearing from individuals from many disciplines working to help victims and prevent trafficking is going to give us a better understanding of the true problem at hand. No matter their walk in life, people deserve to be safe and free. I hope the legislation we develop will move New York state that much closer to a place where trafficking is brought to light so it cannot thrive in darkness," said Walsh.

"Many New Yorkers have been, and still are, unaware of just how fast the human trafficking epidemic is growing within our communities, which is why I am incredibly pleased with the tremendous turnout of today’s Human Trafficking Task Force event. Witnessing such a diverse group of experts, law enforcement and community leaders come together fills me with great hope and optimism in tackling this heavy-hitting and ongoing issue our society faces. I am truly happy we were able to address this critical issue, provide comprehensive support to affected parties, and most importantly begin to create meaningful legislation with appropriate penalties for traffickers to combat this crisis as a whole," said Giglio.

"I was proud to co-host this immensely important task force. Human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes imaginable so we must do everything in our power to rid this scourge from earth. I want to thank all the stakeholders who participated today as well; their insights and unique perspectives are invaluable in our fight against human trafficking," said Flood.

Assemblymen Joe DeStefano (R,C-Medford) and Doug Smith (R,C-Holbrook) were also present at the meeting. Among other stakeholders were Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon (District 6), Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney along with assistant district attorneys, Undersheriff Keith Taylor, several investigators from both County Sheriff’s Office and Suffolk County representation from ECLI-VIBES Safe Harbour EAC-Network Axis Church Parents for Megan’s Law Northwell Health System’s Human Trafficking Education Advocacy Response Training Program U.S Citizenship Immigration Services Brentwood High School Protect All Children from Trafficking (PACT) The Retreat.

"Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that thrives in shadows exploiting vulnerability robbing individuals of their freedom I am grateful task force traveling state working develop comprehensive plan confront critical issue equip law enforcement necessary tools combat crime ensure justice victims take decisive steps protect New Yorkers," said Smith.

 "Human trafficking heinous crime preys vulnerable among Long Island proximity major transportation hubs dense population unfortunately made hotspot for activities recent years Recognizing issue only first step commit taking decisive action combat grave injustice task force meeting Suffolk County represents crucial opportunity make significant strides eradicating protecting communities," said DeStefano.

The Minority Task Force thanks its venue partner Stony Brook University for providing space for this important discussion Additional meetings planned Nassau Community College Hudson Valley Capital Region Western New York