Human trafficking is more prevalent

AUSTIN (KXAN) - According to the US Department of Justice, 18,000 people are brought into the United States a year against their will. It is a growing crime in Texas and one that lawmakers will hear more about in the upcoming legislative session. The state of Texas has little to no authority when it comes to prosecuting those who buy and trade humans. Yet, the State's Attorney General hopes to change that by educating and asking for more prosecution rights.

Last July, S.W.A.T. team members moved into this unassuming home in Hays County. What they found in this stash house, surprised even law enforcement officials. "We didn't expect to find that many people," said Chief Howard Williams of the San Marcos police. Williams has seen this before, and knows he will see it again. Research shows, human trafficking is the fastest growing crime worldwide, tied with illegal arms sales.

"Human trafficking has been on the rise here in Texas," said Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Democrat representing San Antonio. "With more than 20-percent of all U-S victims found right here in Texas." Yet, the state's Attorney General, along with state leaders hope to stop it in Texas starting with educating other lawmakers on the problem and suggesting solutions.

"We prepared this in advance of 81st legislative session to arm legislators with the information they need to tackle this growing problem," said Greg Abbott. So, during a day long information session, a panel of experts on the subject presented not just the issue, but ways to help stop and prosecute those who transport people and treat them like slaves. "Improve professional training on human trafficking at all levels of government," said Abbott.

That way there is hope that authorities can identify the problem faster, victims' lives can be changed and human traffickers can be stopped. The Attorney General said the 81st legislative session will be presented with a full report about the issue when it resumes.