Current Anti-Prostitution Efforts and Potential of Strategy to Tackle Demand for Addressing Sex Trafficking in the Houston Area

Abstract

One fourth of human trafficking in America occurs in Houston, Texas. Houston has access to areas such as the port and the I-10 corridor which make individuals more susceptible to victimization. A form of human trafficking is sex trafficking. The diversity and frequent visitors to the city serves as a camouflage in aiding those that are involved in sex trafficking literally allowing for victims to blend in plain sight. Various countries have enacted law to combat this issue. An approach to consider is one that places the criminal burden on the buyer and provides resources for women to change lifestyles if desired. The aim of this project is to develop and conduct stakeholder views to draw from experts current measures for anti-sex trafficking or prostitution methods performed in Houston. The aim is also to gather from interviewees an evaluation of the appropriateness, acceptability and feasibility of implementing a strategy of prosecuting and exposing patrons, rather than prostitutes, in the Houston area