SAN DIEGO — Local and state leaders announced Wednesday they received $600,000 in state funding to crack down on human trafficking operations happening in San Diego.
A news conference was held at city hall including Assemblymember Brian Maienschein, Mayor Todd Gloria and SDPD Chief David Nisleit.
"As a father of two girls I'm especially invested in protecting minors who become exploited at the hands of criminals," said Assemblymember Maienschein. "However, one does not need to be a parent or even know a victim of human trafficking to recognize we must invest in resources to protect the most vulnerable members of our society."
Assemblymember Maienschein secured the funding. He is running for San Diego City Attorney in 2024.
The FBI has identified San Diego as one of the country's hot spots for human trafficking. It ranks 13th in the nation with as many 8000 victims locally per year.
Chief Nisleit said the funding will help police conduct investigations into human trafficking similar to 'Operation Better Pathways.' In February, law enforcement announced because of that operation 48 people were arrested and 41 victims were rescued, including a 13-year-old girl.
Law enforcement has said one challenge they've encountered is SB 357. Critics of the new law have said it ties their hands, and it makes it more difficult to crack down on offenders and to help trafficking victims. So far, efforts to repeal the law have failed.