Florida is 'Prime Location' For Human Trafficking in US - Local Police

Human trafficking is alive and well in the State of Florida. Public information officer says that Florida is greatly exposed to human trafficking due to the favorable economic climate in the state.

MOSCOW (Sputnik), Alexander Mosesov — Florida is greatly exposed to human trafficking due to the favorable economic climate in the state, Cpl. Murray Smith from Columbia County Sheriff's Office told Sputnik on Tuesday.

On Monday, the Sheriff's Office stated that an investigation into a kidnapping, rape and false imprisonment case revealed the existence of a human trafficking group in Florida.

"Human trafficking is the second largest criminal enterprise in the world with illegal narcotics being first. As with most businesses, the managers look for areas where they can make the most money and Florida is a prime location," Smith told the news agency.

A woman was kidnapped and raped by three men on March 3 in northern Florida. So far, detectives have arrested James Lauvalle Harris, 20, who has been identified as one of the abductors.

The public information officer added that there is "an ongoing and very active investigation" into the case.

Harris is suspected of kidnapping and sexual abuse, among other felonies. He was placed in detention with a bond of $325,000.

On Tuesday, the US Senate will consider the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, which aims to expand and develop domestic local child human trafficking deterrence programs, as well as victim rescue programs. The act also envisages the creation of specialized training programs for law enforcers, judicial officials and prosecutors.