FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 1st, 2014
CONTACT: John-Paul Yates, 952-405-8510 or JohnPaul.Yates@mail.house.gov

Paulsen Statement on Super Bowl Prostitution Ring Arrests
Washington, D.C. Representative Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement today after New York police made 18 arrests in connection with a prostitution ring associated with tomorrow’s Super Bowl:

“During Super Bowl weekend, we celebrate greatness in American athletics. This week’s arrests are a reminder that in the midst of all the football and funny commercials, many women and young girls are being trafficked at these events. The average age of entry into sex trafficking is just 12-14 years old, and the consequences for these young women are dire, including both physical and mental injuries. There are solutions to end these awful crimes, prosecute the perpetrators, and defend victims of sex trafficking.”

Congressman Paulsen introduced the "Child Sex Trafficking Data and Response Act" with Congresswoman Slaughter (D-NY), which improves data systems that track missing children as well as provides proper designation to ensure victims receive the care and help needed to prevent reentry into the sex trade. In addition, he introduced the “Stop Exploitation Through Trafficking Act” with Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) which brings together federal and state governments, along with law enforcement and non-profit organizations to strengthen our national response to sex trafficking and improve access to services for victims.

Last month, Paulsen wrote to President Obama urging him to discuss sex trafficking in his State of the Union address, stating “While there are numerous partisan fights that divide Washington, this is an issue where there are members on both sides of the aisle working together to enact solutions.” The full letter can be found here.
Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, and is co-chair of the Congressional Medical Technology Caucus.

For more information on Rep. Paulsen’s work in Congress and to view previous editions of Erik’s Correspondence Corner visit www.paulsen.house.gov.
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