TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced what his office described as historic human trafficking enforcement efforts across the state, pointing to increases in investigations, arrests, prosecutions and prison sentences since he took office in February 2025.
According to Uthmeier’s office, more than 1,600 people have been arrested in human trafficking and exploitation-related cases since February 2025. Convicted defendants in cases handled by the Office of Statewide Prosecution have received a combined 3,275 years in prison during that time.
“With over 1,600 child predators and human traffickers arrested since February of last year, we are setting records that should keep the bad guys up at night,” Uthmeier said. “It’s an honor to partner with law enforcement, prosecutors, and private-sector businesses across Florida to educate the public, rescue and provide services to victims, and ensure that predators and traffickers are behind bars for as long as possible.”
The Attorney General’s Office said the Office of Statewide Prosecution’s human trafficking efforts increased significantly compared to 2024. Active human trafficking cases rose by 28 percent, defendants in active human trafficking cases increased by 22 percent, and convictions in human trafficking cases increased by 32 percent.
Overall statewide prosecution efforts also increased, according to the office. The number of charges filed rose by 54 percent from 2024 to 2025, while the total number of defendants charged increased by 30 percent. Total prison time increased by 10 percent.
State officials also highlighted several major prosecutions, including a 120-year sentence for longtime trafficker Marquett James in Hillsborough County and a life sentence for child trafficker Raul Brown in Palm Beach County.
FDLE Assistant Commissioner John Vecchio said law enforcement agencies across the state are working together to target trafficking operations, particularly as Florida prepares for major international events.
“While we welcome visitors to Florida to enjoy events like the FIFA World Cup, that are set on a global stage, we need you to know: if you come to our home and take advantage of Floridians and our visitors, we will hold you accountable,” Vecchio said.
Uthmeier’s office also pointed to a recent agreement with Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle aimed at combating human trafficking ahead of large-scale events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Business and advocacy groups are also joining the effort. Mark Wilson, president and CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, said Florida’s business community is working to raise awareness and train employees to recognize the warning signs of trafficking.
Erin Collins, executive director of the Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking, said prevention remains a key part of the state’s strategy.
“Human trafficking often hides in plain sight, which is why training employees, businesses, volunteers, and community members to recognize the warning signs is so important,” Collins said.
Uber also announced it is partnering with It’s a Penalty this summer to provide human trafficking awareness materials to riders and drivers ahead of an expected increase in travel.
In addition to prison sentences, the Attorney General’s Office said prosecutors have secured more than $53.3 million in fines, restitution, court costs, prosecution costs and investigation costs against defendants since February 2025.
