Alabama is taking strong measures against human traffickers following Governor Kay Ivey’s signing of the “Sound of Freedom Act.”
People who are found guilty of trafficking minors will now face a mandatory life sentence, according to the recent legislation.
Human trafficking in Alabama used to be considered a Class A felony, which carried a punishment of 20 years to life in prison. However, the recent change in the law will now make the penalties even more severe.
According to Bo Williams from the North Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force, human trafficking is a prevalent issue wherever there are people.
Human trafficking is a billion dollar industry that spans across the nation, including here in the Tennessee Valley, according to Williams. He emphasizes that the purpose of the new law is to ensure the safety of children in Alabama. Williams highlights that children are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking and need protection.
“They don’t realize that someone online who asks them to keep secrets doesn’t have their best interests at heart,” Williams explained. “We must continue to fight this battle and safeguard the innocence of children.”
Alabama’s busiest roadways, including I-565 and I-20, are frequently utilized by traffickers. Nevertheless, the “Sound of Freedom Act” aims to put an end to this issue, as lawmakers consider it one of the most stringent anti-human trafficking laws in the country.
According to the latest statistics from the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Alabama received a total of 285 calls in 2021. Surprisingly, more than 100 of these calls were made by victims of human trafficking themselves.
According to Williams, this move is conveying a powerful message.
He explained that the allure of the activity lies in the promise of success and making a substantial amount of money. However, he emphasized the importance of having laws in place and dedicated law enforcement officials who can apprehend and incarcerate these traffickers for life. By doing so, it prevents them from continuing their illicit activities while behind bars.
Aubree Alles, a survivor of human trafficking, emphasizes that few truly comprehend the challenging predicament that victims find themselves in.
According to Alles, her past traumas had prepared her to be vulnerable during her younger years.
Alles firmly believes in the importance of protecting children, and she hopes that the implementation of this new law will serve as an example for others to emulate.
“These children will carry the burden of these experiences for the rest of their lives, and I know firsthand that it is not an easy road,” she shared. “I truly hope that this story reaches people all across the United States. Far too often, individuals responsible for such acts receive minimal punishment, while countless others silently endure unimaginable suffering. It’s time for this cycle to come to an end.”
The “Sound of Freedom Act” is set to take effect on October 1st.
