The Seattle Police Department (SPD) and the International Rescue Committee in Seattle (IRC) are set to receive a substantial $750,000 grant from the U.S. Justice Department, marking a significant victory in the fight against human trafficking. U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan made the announcement, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the Washington Advisory Committee on Trafficking (WashACT).
Half of the funds, amounting to $500,000, will be allocated to the SPD, while the IRC will receive the remaining $250,000. These grants are a testament to the dedication and success of WashACT in battling human trafficking across western Washington. The initiative has been instrumental in aiding over 100 victims and securing convictions in more than 60 human trafficking cases.
U.S. Attorney Durkan praised the WashACT model program, noting its effectiveness as a collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, along with community partners. WashACT’s achievements have not gone unnoticed; it has become a beacon for task forces across the country, serving as a leader in training programs for other human trafficking units sponsored by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Seattle Police Chief Jim Pugel emphasized the grant’s significance, stating, “We appreciate this grant’s role in furthering our efforts to combat human trafficking. Ultimately, it’s about restoring victims’ lives.” Kathleen Morris, Program Manager for the Washington Anti-Trafficking Response Network (WARN), echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of providing comprehensive support to victims and survivors of human trafficking.
The Seattle Police Department’s grant stems from DOJ’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), while the IRC’s funding is provided by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). The grants support a comprehensive approach to tackling all forms of human trafficking, including sex and labor trafficking, affecting both foreign nationals and U.S. citizens.
The Enhanced Collaborative Model Task Force, supported by these grants, coordinates efforts closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and victim service provider partners, ensuring a coordinated response to human trafficking cases in the region impacted by WashACT.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Human Trafficking|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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