US Sex Trafficking Cases Decline Amid Staffing, Funding Issues

What Happened

Federal investigations and prosecutions into sex trafficking cases in the United States have slowed, with the number of defendants declining. Through June, federal prosecutors charged 73 individuals with sex trafficking offenses, representing a 22% reduction compared to the average pace over the preceding three years. Charges for related offenses, such as those involving child pornography and interstate prostitution, also saw decreases.

This trend emerges amid staffing shortages, funding delays, and a broader shift in federal law enforcement priorities, including a focus on immigration enforcement. Some experienced personnel have departed the Justice Department, and agents previously involved in trafficking cases have been reassigned to immigration duties. These changes have impacted the trust and cooperation of victims and witnesses, with advocates noting disruptions in relationships and a reluctance among some survivors to engage with federal authorities. Funding for victim support services has also been affected, with delays or freezes in some grants and a reduced pace in T-visa approvals for trafficking victims.

Background

The Trump administration has publicly stated that combating sex trafficking is a high priority. However, current and former law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and victim advocates point to a discrepancy between these public statements and the resources allocated. The decline in cases has occurred while Todd Blanche was confirmed as U.S. Attorney General on August 8, 2026, a nomination that faced criticism. Blanche has stated that combating human trafficking remains a departmental priority.

In a separate development, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche formally withdrew plans for a controversial $1.8 billion compensation fund for individuals alleging politically motivated prosecutions. This fund had drawn bipartisan criticism and risked impacting Blanche's permanent nomination.

Key Facts

• Federal sex trafficking charges filed through June were approximately 22% fewer than the average for the same period in the previous three years.
• Through June, 73 people were charged with sex trafficking offenses.
• Charges for child pornography-related offenses decreased by 3% compared to the previous three-year average.
• Charges under the Mann Act, targeting interstate prostitution, were 18% below the average.
• The decline is linked to staff shortages, funding issues, and a focus on immigration enforcement.
• Todd Blanche was confirmed as U.S. Attorney General on August 8, 2026.
• Plans for a $1.8 billion compensation fund for alleged victims of politically motivated prosecutions were formally withdrawn.