Criminal Defense Lawyers for Human Trafficking Charges in South Carolina
Human trafficking is a serious charge that can carry severe penalties. Because the burden of proof lies on the state, requesting all relevant evidence is just the starting point for building your criminal defense. Our familiarity with prosecutorial techniques, knowledge of the SC criminal law, and our understanding and sincere concern for the rights and liberty of people facing criminal charges ensures that you will receive a vigorous, well-planned defense.
Section 16-3-2020
In South Carolina, the Code of Laws states that a person is guilty of trafficking in persons if he or she recruits, entices, solicits, isolates, harbors, transports, provides, or obtains, or attempts to obtain, a victim, for the purpose of or even only having knowledge that the victim will be forced into sex trafficking, forced labor or services, involuntarily servitude or debt bondage through any means. A person can also be found guilty of the same if he or she benefits financially, or receives anything of value, by any means that has engaged in any of the above referenced acts.
Additional human trafficking charges include:
- conspiracy to transport a person in interstate commerce for the purpose of prostitution
- conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor
- promoting prostitution
Penalties for Trafficking in Persons:
- For a first offense, the person is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than fifteen years.
- For a second offense, the person is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than thirty years.
- For a third or subsequent offense, the person is guilty of a felony, and, upon conviction, must be imprisoned not more than forty-five years.
Additionally, a person convicted of trafficking in persons must be ordered by the court to pay a mandatory restitution to the victim.
Charged with human trafficking in South Carolina?
If you have been charged with trafficking in humans, (human trafficking), in South Carolina, we may be able to help. Contact us today for a free case consultation to discuss your case. You have rights, and our criminal defense lawyers will work to provide the best possible outcome for your case.
