Human exploitation for sexual purposes continues to be a pressing concern in the United States and New Jersey, impacting numerous victims annually. This manifestation of human trafficking entails the abuse of persons, frequently underage, for profit-driven sexual activities using intimidation, deception, or manipulation. Nevertheless, some individuals may face allegations of involvement in such activities and feel uncertain about where to seek assistance.

Should you or a friend be charged with sex trafficking offenses, it is crucial to promptly contact a skilled and assertive criminal defense lawyer. The proficient legal team at the Lento Law Firm possesses the knowledge to maneuver through this intricate legal landscape, guaranteeing that your rights to fair treatment are safeguarded throughout the entire legal process. Call the offices today at 888-535-3686 or schedule a consultation online.

Alleged International Sex Trafficking Ring

In late 2024, Mike Jeffries, the ex-CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch, faced arrest for orchestrating a sex trafficking operation spanning from 2008 to 2015, along with his life partner Matthew Smith and their associate James Jacobsen. Allegedly, the trio exploited Jeffries' influence, affluence, and authority to lure no fewer than 15 men to attend drug-infused, unusual, and manipulative sexual gatherings, promising them modeling contracts with Abercrombie & Fitch in return.

The United States classifies sex trafficking as a federal crime. Under this federal law, it is illegal to consciously use force, fraud, or coercion to entice, harbor, recruit, provide, obtain, transport, or maintain a person over 18 years old. And if the person is under the age of 18, then no proof of force, fraud, or coercion is necessary.

Now, in New Jersey, human trafficking is defined as knowingly holding, recruiting, luring, enticing, harboring, transporting, providing, or obtaining another person to engage in sexual activity through:

• Abuse of the legal process.
• Fraud, deception, or misrepresentation.
• Force, threats, or physical restrain.
• Enabling access to controlled dangerous substances.
• Destruction or concealment of government-issued identification.

If an individual is accused of human trafficking, they can face 10 to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $200,000, and another mandatory fine of $25,000 to the Human Trafficking Survivor's Assistance Fund. Additionally, if the alleged victim is under 18 years old, the defendant faces harsher punishments, such as 20 years in prison without the eligibility of parole or a specific term between 20 years and life imprisonment with a 20-year parole disqualifier.

How the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team Can Help

Being accused of sex trafficking in New Jersey is incredibly frustrating, overwhelming, and scary. Not only are your personal freedoms and reputation on the line but so is your livelihood. Working with a skilled criminal defense team who is familiar with these complex laws is key to getting the best possible outcome for your case.

The Criminal Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm will work tirelessly to ensure you have a strategic defense in place, including showing that you did not know you were holding someone with the intention of them performing sexual activity. Call our offices today at 888-535-3686 or schedule a consultation online. You don't have to go through this alone. Let our competent attorneys help.