This report delves into the overlooked intersection of human trafficking and incarceration and offers some suggestions about how to better keep trafficking survivors out of jail, support them if they’re incarcerated, and help them afterward. Four survivors of trafficking co-authored this report with staff from the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC).
In 2025, the National Center for Victims of Crime assembled a group of individuals with personal experience in human trafficking and incarceration. One key takeaway from this group was the importance of recognizing and identifying signs of trafficking among justice system professionals. This understanding is crucial for improving responses to crimes that occur within the context of trafficking.
Additionally, the group highlighted the necessity of eliminating common barriers faced during the process of reentry into the community. They emphasized the value of implementing trauma-informed approaches at every point of contact within the system.
With the insights from this group of experts, NCVC has identified several practical strategies that can be applied before, during, and after incarceration. "By basing our approaches and solutions on the firsthand experiences of those who confront the challenges and barriers to accessing services, we can create more effective pathways for these individuals to thrive." This report would not be possible without the contributions of Elizabeth Jimenez, Tanisha Murden, Elizabeth Quiroz, and Kathryn Walsh.
