ICE and USF Team Up to Help Human Trafficking Victims
When law enforcement finds a trafficking victim, every minute matters — but until now, figuring out which organizations could help and how to reach them quickly was a major gap. ICE and the University of South Florida just signed a deal to fix that. The new partnership could change how trafficking survivors across Florida — and eventually the whole country — get help.
A New Tool Connects Victims to Help — Faster
On May 22, 2026, ICE's Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) — the federal agency that leads human trafficking investigations — signed a formal agreement with the University of South Florida's Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab, known as the TIP Lab. The goal: make it faster and easier to connect trafficking survivors with the help they need, including safe housing and health care.
At the center of the partnership is a technology called the BRIGHT Project (short for Bridging Resources and Information Gaps in Human Trafficking). Since its launch in 2024, BRIGHT has been used by 145 anti-trafficking organizations, service providers, and law enforcement agencies across Florida — including the Florida Department of Children and Families and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. So far, it has connected around 100 victims to vital resources.
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The tool lets law enforcement officers, social workers, and nonprofit staff track and coordinate services for survivors in real time. HSI special agents and victim assistance specialists will now use an expanded version of BRIGHT built specifically for law enforcement needs. HSI handles nearly 50% of all human trafficking investigations and prosecutions in the US each year. Between October 2020 and October 2023, HSI's Victim Assistance Program helped 3,715 victims — including 2,044 children.
USF researchers hope this partnership will also produce long-term evidence on which victim support strategies work best. The model is designed to be scalable, meaning it could eventually be used beyond Florida. "What makes this partnership unique is that it brings together survivors, service providers, federal partners, university researchers and operational technology into one coordinated response effort," said USF Criminology Professor Shelly Wagers, who directs the BRIGHT Project.
What to Do If You or Someone You Know May Be a Trafficking Victim
- Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in multiple languages. You can also text "HELP" to 233733.
- Know that victims have rights. If you are a trafficking victim, you may be eligible for special immigration protections — including a T visa (a visa for trafficking victims that may allow you to stay in the US legally). Lawyers recommend asking about this option as soon as possible.
- Contact a local anti-trafficking organization. Groups connected to the BRIGHT network can help you find safe housing, health care, and legal support without requiring you to go to law enforcement first.
- If you are undocumented, do not let fear stop you from seeking help. Trafficking victims — regardless of immigration status — may qualify for protections under federal law. Speaking with an immigration lawyer can help you understand your options.
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Trafficking victims — regardless of immigration status — have the right to apply for a T visa, which may allow them to remain in the US legally and eventually apply for a green card. It is critical to document your situation as early as possible, because law enforcement certification is often required as part of the T visa application. If you or someone you know has been trafficked, consult an immigration attorney right away to protect these rights before any removal proceedings begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BRIGHT Project and how does it help trafficking victims?
BRIGHT is a technology tool created by the University of South Florida. It connects trafficking victims with local organizations that can provide services like safe housing and health care. It also helps law enforcement, social workers, and nonprofits coordinate their efforts so victims get help faster.
Can I get immigration protection if I am a trafficking victim?
Yes. Trafficking victims — including undocumented immigrants — may qualify for a T visa, which is a special visa for trafficking survivors. It may allow you to stay in the US legally and, after meeting certain requirements, apply for a green card. Lawyers recommend speaking with an immigration attorney as soon as possible to understand your options.
Do I have to talk to ICE or police to get help as a trafficking victim?
Not necessarily. Many anti-trafficking organizations can provide services like housing and health care without requiring you to go to law enforcement first. However, some immigration protections — like the T visa — may require a certification from law enforcement. An immigration lawyer can help you decide the safest path forward.
Is this partnership only for Florida, or will it expand to other states?
Right now, the HSI-USF partnership is focused on Florida, with HSI's Tampa and Miami field offices involved. However, the agreement is designed to create a scalable model — meaning the goal is to eventually expand it to other states if it proves effective.