An Analysis of Human Trafficking in the Southeastern United States: Improving Enforcement and Training

Human trafficking is an international criminal phenomenon that disregards human morals and beliefs. The United States is not immune to these heinous acts that unfortunately remain largely unseen by law enforcement and legal authorities. This research presents a comprehensive analysis of the crime in the southeastern region of the United States. By focusing on the region, and more specifically the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the research provides valuable insights to both the states within the focus region, as well as states across the country. Research topics on human trafficking varies greatly; however, this research emphasizes current law enforcement and training efforts, along with suggestions stemming from interviews with professionals in the field as well as outside research conducted nationally and internationally. Cross examinations were utilized to compare the combative efforts of differing locations against the suggestions and case studies analyzed from outside research. This simplistic methodology allows for a complete collaboration of efforts and ideas that have then been generated into a comprehensive set of suggestions and implications for future research. Findings highlight the need for continued emphasis on victim-considerate tactics, as well as focused law enforcement efforts towards those financing the traffickers. In short, the research findings add to the existing body of knowledge on combating human trafficking with an emphasis on more effective laws and enforcement efforts within Kentucky and surrounding states. Political Scienc