Human trafficking is a serious criminal act that continues to happen in the United States. According to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, 437 people were referred to the US Attorneys’ offices for human trafficking offenses in fiscal year 2025, while 153 defendants were convicted. The number of convictions increased by 30% compared with 2021.

The effects of a human trafficking conviction may be far-reaching and severe. Penalties include jail time, fines, and criminal history that could affect future prospects. Most convicted individuals find it difficult to obtain employment, housing, and even immigration and other aspects of life.

As such, it’s important to consider how a conviction may affect a person’s future criminal record and other opportunities later in life. Here’s what you need to understand.

Why Trafficking Charges Carry Unusually Heavy Classification

There are two main categories in human trafficking crimes according to federal and New York laws. Sex trafficking and labor trafficking.…