Human trafficking investigations offer unique challenges to law enforcement. Officers balance investigative activities while having to keep in mind the safety and well-being of any potential victim of human trafficking. Law enforcement has a duty and a moral obligation to protect these victims and keep them from further harm. Law enforcers need to continually assess investigative activities to determine the nature and extent of physical harm to victims.
Early on in any human trafficking investigation, there should be consultation with victim advocates to determine the best courses of action once a victim is rescued. The paramount consideration is the physical and mental health of the victim. Victims should be examined as soon as possible to determine any health issues. Law enforcers need to be particularly aware of this and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the possible threat of any communicable diseases from victims.