Why might immigrant victims of human trafficking not tell the truth to law enforcement?

Immigrant victims of human trafficking often experience significant fear and mistrust towards law enforcement, largely due to concerns about their immigration status and the possibility of deportation. Many trafficked individuals come from countries with different legal systems and cultural norms, which may contribute to their apprehension about engaging with authorities. This fear is compounded by a lack of understanding about their rights or the protections available to them in the U.S. Moreover, many may have been threatened by their traffickers, which reinforces their reluctance to disclose information to law enforcement.

While understanding laws in their home countries can be a factor in their hesitation, it is not the primary reason for their silence. Similarly, familiarity with the U.S. legal system is typically low among trafficking victims, making it harder for them to seek help. Encouragement to report traffickers is not common; in fact, traffickers often employ manipulation and intimidation tactics to ensure their victims remain silent. Therefore, the fear of deportation and distrust in the legal system are key reasons why immigrant victims might withhold the truth from law enforcement.