The LAPD is planning to disband its Human Trafficking and Prostitution Vice Unit due to budget cuts. They are making the decision in the next few days and it is URGENT they hear from taxpayers and concerned citizens that cutting the unit is unacceptable.

Human Trafficking is the 3rd largest criminal enterprise in the world. Los Angeles County is one of the largest trafficking ports in the United States. With the average age of entry into prostitution in the U.S. at 12-14 years old and the demand for trafficked children as sex slaves and slave labor increasing, we can't afford to close down this unit. The LAPD would never shut down the narcotics vice unit. Preventing the sale of human beings should be an even greater priority. What's more, untrained officers are more likely to treat those children as criminals instead of victims, which is never okay. 

Please tell LAPD Chief Charlie Beck that you want your taxpayer dollars to continue supporting the Human Trafficking and Prostitution Unit. If you're not an L.A. resident, sign to let him know the city is accountable not only to the children of Los Angeles, but to all who are trafficked through L.A. ports. The Human Trafficking and Prostitution Unit must remain in operation.