Orangeburg Rotary Club-Morning Hears Expert on Human & Sex Trafficking

The meeting’s guest speaker was Marquez Claxton, a retired NYPD Detective, former Director of Public Safety & Security for Voorhees College, and current Director of Safety & Emergency Services for Richland County School District 2.

Director Claxton is a lifetime member of the NAACP, a founding member and former spokesperson for “100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care” and is currently the Director of Political Affairs and Public Relations for the Black Law Enforcement Alliance.       

Defining the Issue

Human trafficking is “the commercial exploitation of individuals.” Says Claxton, “People are often coerced, bullied, or positioned to provide sexual services against their will for those who profit from them – often referred to as pimps.”

Claxton states that sex trafficking is difficult to clearly identify and prosecute. It’s often simpler to prosecute the underlying crimes, such as prostitution or other sexual offenses. As a result, many states have added layers of legal protection and enhanced penalties for those caught as sex traffickers.

Vulnerable Populations

“Our children are particularly at risk due to social media and the increased opportunity for communication,” Claxton says. “Young people with limited experience and understanding are more vulnerable.”

The immigrant population also faces an increased risk. Many have been trafficked into the county for the purpose of sexual exploitation. 

Recommendations to Address Sex Trafficking

• Increase Awareness: Expand communication through flyers, contact persons, and programs like Travel Watch SC at airports.
• Enhance Victim Support Services: Address the need for additional social services and trained social workers.
• Improve Training for Law Enforcement: Provide more information and training to law enforcement to increase sensitivity and encourage information sharing.
• Strengthen Legislation: Increase penalties for sex trafficking convictions.
• Collaborate with Federal Agencies: Establish a collaborative relationship to address issues like immigrant trafficking.

Director Claxton recommends using resources provided by the South Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force where the SC Attorney General hosts video resources and training videos suitable for young people who need to be aware of the dangers of online interactions.