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Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit [August 2025 Update]

Use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit Claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Human Trafficking Lawsuits Against Hotel Chains

On this page, we’ll discuss the Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit, resources and legal services for human trafficking survivors, different types of sex trafficking and labor trafficking in hotel chains, and much more.

If you are currently experiencing a situation related to human trafficking and need immediate help or someone to talk to, please contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 for confidential support and resources.

Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance, and help is available 24/7.

Trafficking Survivors May Have the Opportunity to Seek Justice and Compensation

Across the United States, survivors are pursuing lawsuits under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act against hotels, motels, and other hospitality businesses accused of allowing sex trafficking activities, forced labor, and other forms of exploitation to occur on their premises.

These cases allege that properties operated by national brands and local franchise owners ignored clear warning signs, such as guests showing signs of physical abuse, the presence of frequent visitors to specific rooms for only a few hours, and victims struggling with language barriers.

Many plaintiffs claim that hospitality employees failed to contact local law enforcement despite repeated opportunities to intervene.

The lawsuits detail the types of human trafficking hotels are accused of, including coercion of individuals into prostitution and the exploitation of vulnerable workers through deceptive contracts or threats.

In many complaints, hotels are said to have turned a blind eye in pursuit of financial gain, continuing to rent rooms and provide services to traffickers.

Survivors argue that these actions, or inactions, amount to knowing participation in trafficking ventures, as defined by federal law.

Recent court filings show a growing willingness by judges to allow these claims to proceed when specific facts link brand-level oversight to conditions at a given property.

Advocates say that systemic failures within the hospitality sector, from inadequate training to ignored reports from staff, have perpetuated both labor and sex trafficking.

The lawsuits aim to secure compensation for victims and drive industry-wide reforms that make hotels safer and less hospitable to traffickers.

Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit; Legal Action for Human Trafficking Survivors; Human Trafficking Lawsuits Against Hotel Chains; Lawsuits Against Hotels For Human Trafficking_ An Overview; Types Of Human Trafficking That Occur In Hotels And Motels; Resources For Human Trafficking Survivors; Do You Qualify To File A Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit

If you or somebody you care about suffered abuse in a human trafficking situation facilitated by a hotel, you may be eligible to file a claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free, confidential consultation.

You can also use the confidential chatbot on this page to get in touch with our team today.

We understand the profound impact and challenges that victims of human trafficking have faced.

Our team is committed to providing guidance, support, and understanding for survivors, which are essential to exploring potential legal pathways to justice.

Reach out to us today for a free, confidential consultation.

Table of Contents

Lawsuit Updates

August 18, 2025

August 18th, 2025: Hotels, Salons Linked to FBI Investigation in Human Trafficking

A years-long federal investigation into human trafficking in Nebraska has led to five arrests and the execution of search warrants at 14 Omaha-area businesses, including multiple hotels and beauty salons, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

The individuals arrested face serious federal charges including labor trafficking, sex trafficking, and harboring undocumented immigrants.

The alleged trafficking operations were centered in hospitality businesses such as the AmericInn, New Victorian Inn & Suites, and Rodeway Inn in Bellevue.

Authorities confirmed the rescue of 27 victims, including 10 minors, who were subjected to either forced labor or sexual exploitation.

Some victims were coerced through “sex for rent” arrangements and forced to work in unsanitary and unsafe conditions.

The complaint also alleges the defendants attempted to manipulate U.S. immigration protections by staging a fake robbery to obtain a U visa—a form of legal status for victims of certain crimes.

The criminal case is part of a larger federal effort to hold businesses accountable for enabling trafficking and to prevent hospitality industry complicity in ongoing abuse.

August 18, 2025
August 5, 2025

August 5th, 2025: Wyndham Human Trafficking Moves Forward Amid Allegations of Forced Labor

A federal judge has ruled that Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Inc. must continue facing claims that one of its franchisees engaged in human trafficking and labor exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including homeless workers.

U.S. District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan allowed trafficking claims under both federal and Pennsylvania law to proceed against Wyndham, citing allegations that the company benefited from forced labor and failed to take sufficient steps to prevent human trafficking within its franchised operations.

Though Wyndham argued it was not part of a “criminal venture,” the court found that its franchise relationship constituted a business venture under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act.

The lawsuit claims the Days Inn and a second hotel, Motel M in West Virginia, housed workers in exchange for labor but restricted hours to keep them in debt for lodging costs.

One plaintiff, Robinson, alleges he was even confined to his room under threat of legal consequences.

The court also preserved limited claims under RICO statutes against the owners of Motel M and their company, Milan LLC, citing a pattern of forced labor facilitated through alleged “trading” of workers between hotels.

Although several claims were dismissed, including those against individual defendants and under state wage laws, Judge Ranjan left the door open for an amended complaint.

Plaintiffs’ counsel praised the decision and reaffirmed their commitment to holding corporate actors accountable under trafficking and civil rights laws.

This ruling reinforces that hotel franchisors may face liability when their branded properties profit from exploitative labor practices, particularly when allegations of knowledge or willful neglect are supported by evidence.

August 5, 2025

Lawsuits Against Hotels for Human Trafficking: An Overview

Lawsuits against hotels for human trafficking are part of an expanding legal effort to confront exploitation that has taken place within the hotel industry across the United States.

Plaintiffs allege that certain hotels and motels either knowingly allowed their properties to be used by human traffickers or failed to act when faced with clear human trafficking warning signs.

These cases point to mounting evidence that hotels are common sites for child sex trafficking and other forms of abuse, where victims often endure both physical and psychological abuse behind closed doors.

Allegations describe staff ignoring or missing obvious red flags (such as unusual visitor patterns, cash payments or prepaid payments, minors without identification, and guests showing signs of coercion or control) without taking action to contact law enforcement.

Survivors argue that these failures allowed traffickers to continue operating with little fear of intervention, all while the businesses continued to profit.

The lawsuits seek not only financial compensation for the harm victims have endured but also systemic reforms, including mandatory training to identify trafficking indicators and raise awareness among hospitality staff.

Major hotel brands have been named in these suits, making known the scope of the problem and the industry’s responsibility to address it.

Advocates emphasize that meaningful change will require both employees and management to actively report suspected trafficking and implement policies designed to protect vulnerable guests.

Through these legal actions, survivors are demanding justice and pushing for a safer, more vigilant hospitality sector.

If you have been a victim of human trafficking in a hotel or motel, you may be eligible to take legal action.

Contact our firm today for confidential support.

We’re here to help you.

What Hotels Chains are Being Investigated for Human Trafficking?

Several hotel chains are currently under investigation for their alleged involvement in human trafficking activities on their premises.

These lawsuits aim to hold these establishments accountable for either turning a blind eye to or directly facilitating the exploitation of individuals.

The following hotel chains have been are being investigated for inclusion in Human Trafficking Lawsuits:

Past Lawsuits for Hotel Human Trafficking

Past lawsuits against hotels for their role in human trafficking have set precedents for accountability and justice.

Notable cases have resulted in substantial settlements, which indicate the recognition of hotels’ responsibilities to prevent and address trafficking on their premises.

In late 2023, Red Roof Inn settled with women who were trafficked in metro Atlanta hotels, with lawsuits claiming that hotel employees knew about crimes being committed at the establishment.

The lawsuit claimed that traffickers relied on hotel staff to notify them if police were in the area and accepted money and drugs in exchange for serving as a lookout.

In February 2023, Days Inn agreed to pay $24.5 million to eight underaged victims of human trafficking in a Northeast Philadelphia hotel.

High-profile cases involving major chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Wyndham have not only brought substantial attention to the issue but also demonstrated the legal vulnerabilities of hospitality businesses that fail to safeguard against trafficking activities.

These legal investigations remain ongoing.

Is There a Class Action Lawsuit for Hotel Human Trafficking?

No, there is not a class action lawsuit for human trafficking in hotels and hospitality chains.

These cases are have been considered for consolidation into a multidistrict litigation (MDL).

Multidistrict litigation (MDL) is a legal procedure that consolidates multiple civil cases involving similar claims and parties to one district court for pretrial proceedings to improve efficiency and consistency.

In the context of hotel human trafficking lawsuits, an MDL would serve to streamline the legal process, allowing for a unified examination of evidence and testimonies that address the systemic issues enabling human trafficking within the hospitality industry.

Lawsuits against hotel chains for human trafficking cite the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, a federal law that permits survivors to sue those who knowingly benefited from their exploitation.

This approach contrasts with a class action lawsuit by focusing on individual claims while addressing commonalities that link them, recognizing the unique circumstances of each survivor’s experience.

An MDL aims to enhance the likelihood of significant legal outcomes and systemic change, setting a precedent that may deter future negligence and improve safety standards within the hotel and hospitality sector.

Types of Human Trafficking That Occur in Hotels and Motels

Hotels and motels can become hotspots for various forms of human trafficking, exploiting individuals under the guise of anonymity and convenience.

Efforts to protect those at risk and identify signs of human trafficking activities are crucial in disrupting these cycles of violence and exploitation.

The most common type of human trafficking found in these settings is sex trafficking, which tragically alters the lives of countless women and children annually through coercion and false promises.

Understanding and recognizing the different types of sex trafficking is vital in bolstering efforts to combat this issue and safeguard vulnerable populations.

Types Of Human Trafficking That Occur In Hotels And Motels

Types of human trafficking present in hotels and motels include:

  • Forced Prostitution and Sex Trafficking of Women: Adults coerced, tricked, lured with false promises of employment, or forced into the commercial sex trade against their will.
  • Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC): The exploitation of minors through prostitution, pornography, and sexual performance in exchange for any form of consideration.
  • Escort Services: The use of hotel rooms for the provision of sexual services, often masquerading as legitimate business activities.
  • Brothel Trafficking: Traffickers operating within a hotel or motel, using it as a fixed location to house victims and conduct sexual transactions.
  • Internet-Based Exploitation: The use of online platforms to advertise and sell the sexual services of trafficking victims, often with transactions taking place within hotel rooms.

How Does Hotel Human Trafficking Happen?

Hotel human trafficking happens when traffickers exploit the privacy and anonymity provided by hotels and motels to conduct their illegal activities.

Traffickers often choose such locations for their operations because hotels offer a seemingly legitimate facade, allowing traffickers to blend in with other guests while exploiting their victims.

Traffickers may book rooms using cash or prepaid cards to avoid detection and use various tactics to control their victims, such as confiscating personal identification documents and isolating them from friends and family.

The mobility and transient nature of hotel accommodations also facilitate the movement of victims between locations, making it harder for authorities to track and intervene.

A lack of training or awareness among hotel staff on the signs of trafficking and how to respond appropriately can contribute to these establishments becoming unwitting venues for such exploitation.

In some instances, the complicity of hotel employees exacerbates the problem, where individuals may turn a blind eye to suspicious activities or even assist traffickers in exchange for money or drugs.

Cooperation between hotel employees and sex traffickers can create an environment where trafficking goes unchallenged and unnoticed, further endangering victims and enabling traffickers to operate with increased boldness and efficiency within these establishments.

Resources for Human Trafficking Survivors

For survivors of human trafficking, finding support and resources can be a critical step towards healing.

Numerous established and trusted organizations are dedicated to offering help, from legal assistance to counseling and shelter.

Resources For Human Trafficking Survivors

If you or someone you know is seeking help after surviving human trafficking, the following resources are available to provide the support you deserve:

Raising Human Trafficking Awareness in the Hotel Industry

The hospitality sector has become a focus of national efforts to combat trafficking, as various hotels have been identified as common venues for both commercial sex acts and forms of domestic servitude.

Survivors often describe a trafficking experience that includes being moved between properties, controlled by traffickers, and subjected to threats or violence regardless of their age, gender, or socioeconomic status.

Cases frequently involve a young woman or other vulnerable individual who is forced into exploitation while hotel staff members witness or overlook visible signs (such as restricted movement, injuries, or avoidance of eye contact) yet fail to act.

In some instances, housekeeping staff or cleaning services encounter obvious signs in guest rooms but lack the training or authority to intervene.

Advocates argue that hotel management plays a crucial role in preventing abuse by training staff to recognize red flags and raise human rights concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Effective programs educate employees on how to identify victims, document suspicious activity, and notify law enforcement before traffickers can continue exploiting guests.

Building strong human trafficking awareness among all levels of hotel personnel (from front desk to housekeeping) is essential to reducing this widespread issue.

By fostering a culture of vigilance, the hospitality industry can take meaningful steps toward protecting vulnerable individuals and disrupting the cycle of exploitation.

Do You Qualify to File a Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit?

If you’ve suffered from coercion, forced sexual activity, or sexual exploitation involving the negligence of the hospitality industry, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

It’s perfectly normal to have reservations about stepping forward, especially after experiencing something as profoundly distressing as human trafficking.

We want to assure you that our team approaches every interaction with the utmost sensitivity, and we recognize the courage it takes to share your story.

Do You Qualify To File A Hotel Human Trafficking Lawsuit

Our promise to you is a safe, non-judgmental space where your voice matters and your well-being is our top priority.

We believe that confidentiality is paramount, and we are committed to going the extra mile to ensure you feel supported and understood throughout the process of exploring your legal rights.

Please reach out to us with any questions you may have.

We’re here to help you.

You Can Remain Anonymous in Legal Proceedings

In legal proceedings related to human trafficking, you may have the option to remain anonymous, using identifiers like “Jane Doe” instead of your real name.

This helps protect survivors’ identities, ensuring their safety and privacy while allowing them to pursue justice.

Many individuals opt for anonymity to avoid potential retaliation from traffickers, safeguard their mental health from the public exposure of their experiences, and protect themselves and their families from any possible stigma.

Remaining anonymous can provide a sense of security, enabling survivors to share their stories and seek accountability without fear of being publicly identified.

This measure is particularly vital in cases where the risk of harm or harassment remains a significant concern.

The legal system offers this option to support your well-being and dignity throughout the process.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Human Trafficking Lawsuits?

The statute of limitations for human trafficking lawsuits can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case.

Generally, federal law allows up to 10 years after the last act of alleged trafficking to file a civil lawsuit, but this can extend if the victim was a minor at the time of the offenses.

The federal law that outlines the statute of limitations for human trafficking lawsuits is the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA).

Specifically, the TVPRA provides that survivors of human trafficking can file a civil lawsuit against their traffickers or those who knowingly benefited from their trafficking up to 10 years after the trafficking situation ends.

Some states have adopted longer periods or have provisions that toll, or pause, the statute of limitations for victims of human trafficking, recognizing the unique challenges and time it might take for survivors to come forward.

Certain legal arguments may extend the time survivors have to file a lawsuit, such as delayed discovery of harm caused by the trafficking.

It’s important for survivors to consult with a lawyer to understand the specific filing deadlines that may apply to their case, as timely action is crucial to preserving legal rights and options.

TorHoerman Law: Investigating Legal Action for Human Trafficking Victims

Our attorneys have a commitment to honoring survivors of human trafficking and are providing assistance to those impacted by the negligence of hotels across the country.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by such experiences, we encourage you to reach out.

Our team is prepared to listen, understand, and guide you through the process of exploring your legal options with compassion and confidentiality.

Your courage to come forward can be a powerful step towards healing and justice, and we’re here to support you.

If you have any questions or are seeking clarity about your situation and potential legal avenues, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We are here to provide you with information and support needed to make informed decisions about your next steps.

TorHoerman Law is partnered with trusted lawyers with decades of experience in advocating for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking.

We collaborate with select attorneys who are leaders in national litigation against hotels and hospitality chains to ensure the best possible legal representation and outcome for survivors of these tragic situations.

Reach out to us for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What legal actions can survivors of hotel human trafficking take?

    Survivors of hotel human trafficking may be eligible to pursue civil lawsuits against hotels where the trafficking occurred if it can be demonstrated that the hotel staff knew about and did not intervene or if the hotel profited from the trafficking activities.

    Federal and state laws, including the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act (TVPRA), provide the basis for these lawsuits, which aim to secure compensation for the harm suffered and hold those responsible accountable.

  • How can I safely report human trafficking or seek help if I'm a survivor?

    If you’re a survivor or wish to report suspected human trafficking safely, you can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.

    The hotline provides confidential assistance 24/7, including resources and support for survivors.

    Reaching out to organizations specializing in aiding human trafficking survivors or consulting with a lawyer experienced in trafficking cases can provide you with guidance and support tailored to your situation.

    Taking the step to reach out for help is brave, and there are resources dedicated to assisting you through recovery and legal processes.

  • How do I know if I'm eligible to file a lawsuit?

    Eligibility for filing a lawsuit depends on several factors, including the nature of your experiences, the jurisdiction where the trafficking occurred, and the specific laws that apply to your case.

    If you’ve been subjected to forced sexual activity, sexual exploitation, or other forms of trafficking within a hotel or similar setting, and there’s evidence to suggest negligence or complicity on the part of the establishment, you may have grounds for legal action.

    Consulting with a lawyer who specializes in human trafficking cases is crucial to determine your eligibility.

  • How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for human trafficking?

    Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay for legal services unless compensation is won in your case.

    Legal representation for survivors of these tragic situations should not be barred by any sort of financial cost.

    Reach out to our law firm today if you have any questions about fee structures or how hiring a lawyer for your case works.

    We’re here to help you.

  • What major hotel chains are named in human trafficking lawsuits?

    Several well-known hotel companies have been named in human trafficking lawsuits across the United States.

    Plaintiffs allege that these brands either ignored human trafficking warning signs or failed to take reasonable steps to prevent exploitation on their properties.

    Lawsuits often include both the corporate franchisor and the local hotel owner or operator.

    The following are among the major hotel chains frequently cited in court filings:

    • Hilton
    • Marriott
    • Wyndham Hotels
    • Best Western
    • Choice Hotels International
    • Super 8
    • Motel 6
    • Red Roof Inn
    • Days Inn
    • Extended Stay America
    • Holiday Inn
    • Other hotel chains and brands

  • Are there specific events or locations where human trafficking activity increases?

    Yes.

    Traffickers often take advantage of large gatherings and high-tourism areas where they can exploit victims more easily and avoid detection.

    Sporting events draw huge crowds that create opportunities for traffickers to arrange commercial sex acts, while high-traffic entertainment hubs such as Las Vegas and its surrounding strip clubs have been repeatedly linked to trafficking investigations.

    Law enforcement and advocacy groups sometimes track patterns, even using tools like license plate recognition to identify vehicles associated with known traffickers or missing persons.

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Tor Hoerman

Owner & Attorney - TorHoerman Law

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