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SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
Convictions in Forced Labor Trial in Kansas
Recently, a labor trafficking case in Kansas found six defendants guilty of conspiracy to commit forced labor and one defendant guilty of five counts of forced labor. These defendants are former members of the United Nation of Islam (UNOI) and were convicted of numerous acts of labor trafficking involving minors.
”The bravery shown by victims of the United Nation of Islam is inspiring, because they spoke up about heinous atrocities committed against them as vulnerable children,” said U.S. Attorney Kate E. Brubacher for the District of Kansas. “In childhood, they suffered physical and emotional abuse, were denied a proper education, and were subject to forced labor. As adults, these victims found the strength and courage to pursue justice and face their abusers.”
“Under the guise of false pretenses and coercion, these victims, some of whom were as young as eight years old, endured inhumane and abhorrent conditions,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus of the FBI Kansas City Field Office. “Today’s convictions should serve as a stark warning that forced labor will not be tolerated by the FBI."
Click here to read the full DOJ press release
If you suspect a person may be a victim of labor trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-3737-888. For more information on labor trafficking, visit their resources on their website. As MBAT members, we encourage you to remain vigilant as trafficking is not only on the rise but all around us.
To learn more about MBAT or utilize the MBAT resources, visit the MBAT website, email MBAT@sos.ms.gov, or call 601-359-3570.
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