HUMAN TRAFFICKING PROSECUTION UNIT INCREASES SATFF AND USES NEW TECHNOLOGY TO COMBAT CRIME (2020)

Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

State Population: 10,711,908 | Contact Information

The Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) is using its IPS grant to modernize the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit (HTPU) at their partner agency, the Georgia Attorney General’s Office. The IPS team is enhancing its investigative and analytical capacity by hiring a Data Analyst, who will implement PLX by PenLink, an innovative investigative technology that compiles and analyzes internet communications, cell site information, pen register data, and a host of other evidence used in combatting human trafficking.

Human trafficking is widespread and there is a significant disparity between the number of victims documented by law enforcement versus those documented by victim service organizations, indicating a need for enhanced investigative strategies.

A data analyst will work closely with law enforcement and prosecutors to process human trafficking cases and cross-train support staff. AEquitas and other national-based organizations will also provide training and support targeting prosecution under trafficking related statutes and case law, roadblocks for prosecution, gang case-specific evidence collection, and witness intimidation.

The site is also expanding collaborations with federal, state, and local partners through the Georgia Gang Investigator’s Association (GGIA) and Operation Not Forgotten