AG Reyes and Chief Leo Lucey train National Citizens Police Academy Conference attendees on combating human trafficking through Investigation, legislation, prosecution and recovery
SALT LAKE CITY April 25, 2016 – Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes and Office of the Attorney General Chief of Law Enforcement, Leo Lucey, conducted training for attendees at the National Citizens Police Academy Conference about law enforcement’s role in combating human trafficking. The Attorney General and Chief Lucey emphasized the importance of embedding victims’ advocates with investigators and prosecutors to increase criminal prosecutions and prevent revictimization of victims.
“Because relationships are so important to fighting human trafficking, we work to embed victims’ advocates early in the investigation and prosecution processes,” said Attorney General Sean Reyes. “Additionally, we are working with legislators to aggressively develop stronger laws to bring more resources to support victims and prosecute human traffickers.”
Chief Lucey talked about the importance of embedding victims’ advocates within investigation and prosecution efforts, both to strengthen the process and to help levy resources to support victims.
“Because it crosses state lines, fighting human trafficking requires a lot of manpower and coordination. We want to do this right and we want to have success” said Chief Lucey. “Solutions have to be systemic to protect victims, who are often living in fear.”
“Whether it’s in Canada, Alaska, Florida, here in Utah, or across the United States, you and the rest of law enforcement are the front line,” said Attorney General Reyes. “You keep our families safe. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for what you do.”
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