Prince William County Officials Warn of Rising Gang-Related Human Trafficking Along Interstate 95

Photo byPrince William County Police

Law enforcement officials and advocates in Prince William County are sounding the alarm about the prevalence of human trafficking, shedding light on a crime often concealed beneath the surface of local gang and drug activities. At a recent forum hosted by the Prince William Committee of 100, county and nonprofit leaders gathered to raise awareness and discuss the challenges associated with combating human trafficking.

Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney William “Bill” Boge acknowledged that while human trafficking cases are seldom prosecuted in Prince William, the widespread presence of local gang and drug operations suggests that the crime is occurring under the radar. Detective Abigail McClaughlin of the Prince William County Police Department, specializing in human trafficking investigations, emphasized the underreporting of cases due to victims, predominantly young women, rarely coming forward.

Victims often do not recognize they are being trafficked, feel ashamed, or believe they willingly participated in manipulation. McClaughlin highlighted the difficulty investigators face in compiling enough evidence for convictions. Tiffany Henderson from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children noted that Virginia ranks low in human trafficking reports nationally, attributing it to a lack of awareness.

Recent cases in the Washington, D.C. area reveal a surge in gang-related trafficking along Interstate 95, from New York to Florida. Henderson shared shocking statistics, indicating numerous trafficked children living in or passing through Virginia. Human trafficking, distinct from smuggling, involves maintaining control over victims through money, threats, or fear.

The newly established Office of Community Safety, led by Wesley Dawson, aims to combat human trafficking by building community networks to support at-risk individuals. Wesley Dawson, created by the Board of County Supervisors, forms part of a broader effort to address rising violent crime.

Human trafficking involves not only sexual violence but also forced servitude, where abusers convince victims to work to pay off a debt. McClaughlin clarified that victims are not always held captive and can be trafficked by close friends, family, or significant others.

Raising awareness about the manipulative tactics used by traffickers is crucial, as victims may not perceive themselves as victims. The community's collaborative efforts and the newly formed office demonstrate a commitment to providing support systems to at-risk individuals, ultimately aiming to eradicate human trafficking in Prince William County.

Know more about the Prince Willaim County Committee of 100 here.

References: Live video recording of the committee meeting on the Prince William Committee of 100 Facebook page.