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Facing Queens Sex Trafficking Charges? Don’t Go Down Without a Fight
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Facing Queens Sex Trafficking Charges? Don’t Go Down Without a Fight
Getting arrested for prostitution or sex trafficking in Queens can be scary. The court system is confusing, the laws are complicated, and you feel like your life is ruined. But don’t lose hope! Going through the system doesn’t have to be the end – you can get your charges dismissed or sealed and move on with your life. This article will walk you through what to expect and how to advocate for yourself.
The Queens Human Trafficking Court
In Queens, prostitution and sex trafficking charges go through a special court called the Human Trafficking Intervention Court. This court views women arrested for prostitution as victims, not criminals. The goal is to connect women with counseling and services to help them leave sex work.
You’ll meet with a Legal Aid lawyer who will explain the deal: If you complete 5-6 counseling sessions, your charges will likely be dismissed and sealed. You don’t have to admit guilt or name a trafficker – the focus is on getting you help. The counseling is free and confidential.
This approach has pros and cons. On the positive side, it avoids jail time and a criminal record. But some women feel re-victimized going through the system at all. As one defendant said, “My name has been tarnished.” The court knows the process is imperfect.
Know Your Rights
Even in this “helping” court, you have rights. Here’s what to expect and look out for:
- Right to a Lawyer: A public defender from Legal Aid will be assigned to you. This lawyer works for you, not the court.
- Right Against Self-Incrimination: You don’t have to admit guilt or share details. Talk to your lawyer before speaking in court.
- Right to an Interpreter: If you aren’t fluent in English, you can request an interpreter for all hearings and meetings.
- Right to Decline Counseling: You can choose not to participate in counseling if you wish. But charges may not get dismissed.
- Right to Privacy: Your name and case details should remain confidential. Object if they don’t.
Speak up if your rights are violated. Tell your lawyer immediately. Don’t let anyone take advantage of you.
Understand the Charges
In Queens, most sex trafficking charges fall under two categories:
- Prostitution – Engaging in sexual activity for money or other compensation. This is a misdemeanor offense.
- Sex trafficking – Using force, fraud, or coercion to cause someone to engage in commercial sex. This is a felony offense.
Other related charges include promoting prostitution, patronizing a prostitute, permitting prostitution, and loitering for the purposes of prostitution. Talk to your lawyer to understand exactly what you’re charged with.
Get the Best Defense
Don’t just take whatever deal they offer – make sure your lawyer fights for you! Here are some defenses that could get your charges dismissed or reduced:
- You were coerced or trafficked – Even if you don’t want to name names, just saying you were forced into it could help.
- Entrapment – If an undercover cop pressured you into agreeing to sex, that’s entrapment.
- Misidentification – If the cops confused you with someone else, fight it.
- Illegal search – If the police didn’t have a warrant or cause to search you, any evidence found may be inadmissible.
Don’t be afraid to push back on unfair charges. Make sure your lawyer fights for you every step of the way.
Take Advantage of Services
The counseling sessions offered through the court aim to connect women with services to transition out of sex work. Here are some of the resources available:
- Counseling and support groups – Talking through your experiences can be healing.
- Job training – Gain skills for a new career path.
- Housing assistance – Get help finding a safe place to live.
- Legal immigration aid – Get support with visas, work permits, and more.
- Medical care – Access health services to address issues related to trafficking.
Make the most of what’s offered. Connect with advocates who can walk you through the system. You don’t have to do this alone.
Avoid Re-Arrest
Once your charges are cleared, be careful not to get arrested again. Any new prostitution or trafficking charges will undo your record sealing and progress. Here are some tips:
- Carry ID to avoid misidentification if police raid a location.
- Know your rights to avoid self-incrimination if questioned.
- Avoid people or places associated with your past charges.
- Call your lawyer immediately if re-arrested.
It can take time to get back on your feet after this ordeal. Give yourself space from anyone who might pull you back into danger. You’ve worked hard – protect yourself.
If you feel comfortable, share your experiences to help create change. Report abuse to authorities, volunteer with anti-trafficking groups, or educate people on social media. With your passion, we can work to end exploitation.
You are so much more than your charges. This does not define you. There are people ready to help, and a community behind you. Queens trafficking survivors, unite! You are strong, resilient, and worthy of a fresh start.
Citations:
[1] In a Queens Court, Women in Prostitution Cases Are Seen as Victims – The New York Times
[2] Eight charged in Flushing-based sex trafficking enterprise: Feds – QNS.com
[3] Manager of Sex Trafficking and Prostitution Ring Indicted on Racketeering and Related Charges Along With Two of the Organization’s Enforcers – Department of Justice
[4] The Shocking True Story Behind Giselle From the Film Sound of Freedom
[5] Feds busted 9 people in violent sex trafficking ring in Queens – NY Post
[6] Founder of anti-human trafficking nonprofit faces more than 30 felony charges, including theft, fraud – YouTube