With eight World Cup matches coming to the state, officials are rolling out enforcement operations, survivor outreach programs and public awareness campaigns aimed at disrupting trafficking networks
Trenton, NJ — As thousands of visitors prepare to descend on New Jersey for this summer’s FIFA World Cup matches, the state is launching a sweeping effort to combat human trafficking, combining criminal investigations, victim outreach, training initiatives and public awareness campaigns designed to prevent exploitation before it occurs.
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport on Tuesday announced a comprehensive set of actions being undertaken by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and partner agencies to address human trafficking during the international tournament.
New Jersey is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches, with games also taking place nearby in Philadelphia.
State officials said the initiative builds on years of expanded enforcement and prevention efforts, including growth within Human Trafficking Units operated by the Division of Criminal Justice and the New Jersey State Police.
Among the measures highlighted by Davenport are increased criminal enforcement operations, expanded victim assistance programs, specialized training for frontline workers and statewide public education efforts.
Recent enforcement actions cited by the Attorney General’s Office include charges filed in May against a Camden man accused of trafficking and promoting prostitution involving two women. In a separate case announced the same month, authorities arrested 13 New Jersey residents accused of operating a human trafficking ring across multiple counties in Central and South Jersey.
Officials said enforcement efforts will continue throughout the World Cup as investigators monitor for trafficking activity connected to large international events.
The state is also expanding victim outreach operations designed to identify and assist individuals who may be experiencing exploitation. Law enforcement agencies are working alongside advocacy organizations to connect potential victims with housing assistance, counseling, medical care and other support services.
Another component of the initiative involves expanding the Attorney General’s STAR program, which partners with Covenant House New Jersey to help officers identify young adults who may be trafficking victims and connect them with services rather than funneling them into the criminal justice system.
The program focuses on individuals ages 18 to 24 and recently expanded to Elizabeth after first launching in Mount Laurel.
Officials are also working to increase awareness among industries that may encounter trafficking victims.
The Division of Consumer Affairs has distributed guidance to licensed healthcare professionals and cosmetology professionals outlining indicators of possible trafficking situations. Notices were also sent to hotels, motels, massage businesses and online payment platforms reminding them of legal obligations related to trafficking prevention and reporting.
Training has additionally been provided to municipal fire inspectors, code enforcement officers, corrections personnel and New Jersey State Police members.
At Monmouth Park in Oceanport, staff members with the New Jersey Racing Commission recently participated in training focused on recognizing signs of labor trafficking among racetrack workers.
The Attorney General’s Office also launched a public awareness campaign June 1 in partnership with nonprofit organization It’s a Penalty. The campaign includes advertising and educational materials distributed through airports, hotels, transportation networks, fan venues and other locations associated with World Cup travel.
A new World Cup information website has also been created, featuring resources related to human trafficking awareness, reporting mechanisms and support services for survivors.
Davenport said the state’s efforts are intended to support victims, disrupt trafficking operations and increase public awareness before and during the tournament.
Key Points
- New Jersey announced a statewide anti-human trafficking initiative tied to this summer’s World Cup matches.
- The effort includes increased enforcement, victim outreach, training programs and public awareness campaigns.
- Officials said the initiative will continue beyond the World Cup as part of ongoing anti-trafficking efforts.