SD AG Marty Jackley and Call To Freedom on New Human Trafficking Laws

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley and Becky Rasmussen, founder of Call to Freedom in Sioux Falls, about new South Dakota Legislation SD 58 that took affect last month. Call to Freedom now has 28 staff members. The AG has prepared a large law enforcement presence armed with his new legislation SD-58 that took effect on July 1.          Read these key points carefully.          Protection for Minors:          Proof of force, fraud, or coercion is NOT REQUIRED when the victim is under 18.  Consent from a minor or their guardian, or a mistake about the minor’s age IS NOT A VALID DEFENSE. Mandatory sentences can now be 15-20 years. The new definition of COERCION now includes exploiting impairment, abusing legal processes, or using debt control. P.S. Mark grew up in Sturgis.  From Call to Freedom's website: Mission Call to Freedom brings hope and wholeness to all individuals impacted by sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and commercial sexual exploitation by navigating a healing path through our continuum of care model. Vision To ensure every person has the right to live with freedom, dignity, and respect. Statement of Faith We model Christ in our approach to restore wholeness to those impacted by sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. Values DIGNITY We value the individuals we serve and accept them where they are on their healing journey. We demonstrate respect and empathy within the Call to Freedom culture through validation, listening, and providing support. PERSON-CENTERED We focus on the needs of the individuals we serve by ensuring they receive the services, being flexible, and honoring them. EMPOWERMENT We empower individuals and communities to prevent sex and labor trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation through education and safety strategies. We empower the individuals we serve to create and achieve personal goals. We empower our team members to utilize a care team approach with clients, each other, and partners. INTEGRITY We utilize a care team approach to provide consistent and dependable support to the individuals we serve. We continually improve our model based on research and feedback.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.