What legal support exists for individuals involved in prostitution in Augusta?
Individuals exploited in prostitution in Augusta are often victims of trafficking or coercion. Legal support focuses on victim protection, not prosecution for prostitution itself under Georgia’s safe harbor laws for minors and vulnerable adults.
Key resources include:
- Augusta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office: Special Victims Unit handles trafficking cases and can connect victims with services.
- Georgia Cares: Statewide coordinating agency for child victims of trafficking (1-844-842-3678).
- SAFE Homes of Augusta: Provides crisis intervention and support for victims of violence, including trafficking.
- Victim Witness Assistance Program (Richmond County): Offers court advocacy and referrals.
Where can someone access health services confidentially in Augusta?
Confidential health services are critical, including STI/HIV testing, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment.
Augusta resources:
- East Central Health District: Offers low-cost STI testing and treatment at the Richmond County Health Department.
- AU Health HIV/AIDS Care Clinic: Provides specialized care.
- Hope House, Inc.: Offers substance abuse treatment and mental health services.
- Lighthouse Care Center of Augusta: Provides inpatient mental health and addiction treatment.
What exit programs or shelters are available in Augusta?
Leaving situations involving prostitution requires comprehensive support. Augusta has limited specialized shelters but offers relevant services:
- Salvation Army Center of Hope: Emergency shelter, case management, and basic needs assistance.
- United Way 2-1-1: Dial 211 for comprehensive referrals to housing, food, employment, and counseling services across the CSRA.
- Rape Crisis and Sexual Assault Services (RCASA): Offers counseling, advocacy, and support groups for survivors of sexual violence, which often overlaps with exploitation.
- Goodwill Career Centers: Provide job training and placement assistance.
How does Georgia law address prostitution and trafficking?
Georgia has strict laws against prostitution (O.C.G.A. § 16-6-9) and strong human trafficking statutes (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-46). Key aspects include:
- Prostitution: Soliciting, performing, or aiding prostitution is illegal. Penalties range from misdemeanors to felonies.
- Trafficking of Persons for Sexual Servitude: A serious felony carrying significant prison time (10-20+ years).
- Safe Harbor Laws: Minors involved in prostitution are legally considered victims of trafficking, not criminals, and are diverted to services.
- Johns School: Some jurisdictions offer diversion programs for solicitors.
Where can I report suspected trafficking or exploitation in Augusta?
Reporting is crucial. Options include:
- Augusta-Richmond County Sheriff’s Office: Non-emergency line or visit a precinct.
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733 (BEFREE). Operates 24/7, confidential, multilingual.
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Human Trafficking Unit: Submit tips online or call.
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Augusta Field Office: For federal trafficking investigations.
In an emergency, always call 911.
What community organizations work on prevention in Augusta?
Prevention focuses on education, outreach, and supporting at-risk populations:
- Child Enrichment, Inc.: Provides advocacy and therapy for abused/neglected children, including those at risk.
- Augusta Partnership for Children: Focuses on early childhood well-being and family support systems.
- Local Youth Development Programs (Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA): Provide safe spaces and mentorship.
- Augusta University Prevention Sciences Institute: Conducts research and implements evidence-based prevention programs.
