SAN DIEGO — The San Diego District Attorney's Office announced Friday it will be working with the Attorney General in Baja California to help human trafficking and domestic violence victims get the help they need.
"Criminals who prey on victims for human trafficking, exploitation and violence know no borders," said San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan.
The top prosecutors on both sides of the border signed an agreement, promising to share information and work together to help victims of violence, regardless of whether they live in San Diego or Tijuana.
"The [Mexican} Consulate General tells me there's more young people going to college in Mexico from San Diego and as they may be victims of different things [such as]exploitation, crime, bullying, gang extraction, beatings, they're able, if they report in San Diego or in Mexico, they can get services wherever they feel safer," said DA Stephan.
DA Stephan estimates there are 60,000 victims that live on both sides of the border.
According to the DA's office, this is a historic partnership because it's the first time One Safe Place, a Family Justice Center, has had an international partnership.
One Safe Place, located in San Marcos, includes all different types of resources for victims under one roof. It will partner with a sister resource center in Tijuana. Another center is expected to open in the South Bay next year.
Your Safe Place, another resource center, is located in the city of San Diego.
If you are someone who needs help now, contact One Safe Place or Your Safe Place.
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