In recent years, multi-district litigation (MDL) cases regarding sex trafficking in hotels and motels have gained significant attention. Victims and Survivors are coming forward all over the country against hotels and motels. As survivors navigate through the complexities of legal proceedings, understanding their rights and avenues for justice becomes paramount.

The Statistical Reality of Sex Trafficking in Hotels & Motels

Sex trafficking at hotels and motels in the United States is a harrowing reality that cannot be ignored. According to reports, these establishments serve as common venues for exploitation. Traffickers often use them as hubs for their illicit activities. The statistics surrounding this issue are staggering:

• Extent of the Problem: Studies estimate that approximately 60%-80% of all sex trafficking transactions in the United States occur in hotels and motels. The Polaris Project Reported an 82% increase in victims calling the hotline in 2021 to report hotel or motel sex trafficking.
• Victim Demographics: Victims of sex trafficking come from diverse backgrounds, including minors and adults, and are often subjected to coercion, manipulation, and violence.
• Underreported Cases: Due to the clandestine nature of sex trafficking, many cases go unreported, making it challenging to gauge the full extent of the problem.

Empowering Survivors: 3 Things You Need to Know

Survivors of sex trafficking require essential knowledge as they seek recourse against hotels and motels complicit in these heinous crimes. Here are three crucial things survivors need to know:

1. Legal Accountability of Establishments: Many hotels and motels were aware of the abuse transpiring within their premises but failed to take adequate measures to prevent it. This negligence makes them legally liable for the harm inflicted upon survivors.
2. Understanding MDL Civil Suits: MDL or Multi-District Litigation refers to the consolidation of multiple related lawsuits into a single federal court for streamlined proceedings. MDL allows for efficient handling of complex legal matters involving numerous plaintiffs and defendants.
3. Criteria for Pursuing Claims: In MDL cases against hotels and motels, certain criteria must be met to substantiate claims. Survivors should pay attention to details such as the time and location of the assaults. These factors play a crucial role in determining the validity of their cases.

Seeking Justice and Support

To survivors who have endured the trauma of human trafficking within the confines of hotels and motels, it’s essential to know that help and support are available. Andreozzi + Foote offers compassionate, confidential, and free assessments of any potential claims survivors may have against these establishments. Our dedicated team understands the sensitivity of these cases. We commit to providing survivors with the guidance and advocacy they deserve.

The fight against human trafficking requires collective action and unwavering commitment. By shedding light on the prevalence of sex trafficking at hotels and motels, we’re empowering survivors with knowledge about their rights and legal avenues. As a result, we take a significant step towards justice and accountability. We encourage survivors to come forward, seek support, and stand up against the perpetrators and enablers of these reprehensible crimes. Together, we can work towards a future where exploitation and injustice have no place in our society

Andreozzi + Foote is a sexual abuse law firm practicing nationwide. We encourage any victims to contact us today.