Lawsuits Against Hotels for Human Trafficking: An Overview

Lawsuits against hotels for human trafficking are part of a growing legal effort to address tragic exploitation that has occurred within hotel and motel establishments across the United States.

Lawsuits claim that various hotel chains have either knowingly allowed their premises to be used for trafficking or have failed to take necessary steps to prevent such activities.

With mounting evidence suggesting that hotels and motels are favored sites for traffickers, the lawsuits aim to hold these businesses accountable for the harm suffered by victims.

Allegations include negligence in spotting and reporting signs of trafficking, such as excessive visitor traffic to certain rooms, minors checking in without ID, or payments made in cash or via prepaid cards.

Significant hotel brands have been named in these lawsuits.

Survivors are seeking not only monetary compensation for the damages they have endured but also the implementation of policies and training to detect and prevent future instances of trafficking.

Both employees in the hospitality industry and regulators are critical in combating human trafficking, and there is an urgent need for systemic changes to prevent these situations, report crimes to authorities, and ensure the safety of vulnerable populations.

Through these lawsuits, there is a push for a deeper understanding of human trafficking’s dynamics and for establishing more robust protections against exploitation in the hospitality sector.

If you’ve been a victim of human trafficking in a hotel or motel, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit and seek compensation.

Reach out to our law firm today.

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:

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

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 currently being 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 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.

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

• National Human Trafficking Hotline: A confidential, 24/7 support service for victims and survivors of human trafficking, offering assistance in over 200 languages. They provide help with emergency shelter, transportation, and referrals for legal and social services. Call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
• Polaris Project: An organization that operates the National Human Trafficking Hotline and works to combat and prevent modern-day slavery and human trafficking.
• Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking (CAST): Offers counseling, legal services, and advocacy for survivors, aiming to empower them to reclaim their freedom and advocate for systemic change.
• Freedom Network USA: Provides access to a range of services for trafficking survivors, including legal, social, and health services, through its member organizations across the country.
• The Salvation Army: The anti-trafficking programs at the Salvation Army offer emergency and transitional housing, legal services, and employment assistance to survivors.

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.

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.