DOJ taps prosecutor to coordinate human trafficking, child exploitation cases

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has appointed Alessandra Serano as the Justice Department’s national coordinator for human trafficking and child exploitation cases. Serano, a seasoned federal prosecutor, has held various roles within the Justice Department since 2003 and will now oversee efforts to investigate and prosecute these crimes. Her responsibilities include collaborating with federal agencies and the Office of Justice Programs, which supports victim services organizations. This appointment underscores the department’s commitment to combating human trafficking, especially in light of recent concerns about the whereabouts of 300,000 unaccompanied minors, some of whom may have been trafficked. Serano emphasized the importance of tracking these children as part of the broader mission to fight human trafficking. In 120 days, she will help update the DOJ’s strategy for addressing these issues. QUESTION: How might the appointment of a national coordinator for human trafficking and child exploitation impact the effectiveness of efforts to combat these crimes?