Rep. Patrick Sheehan Highlights Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

Sheehan, who also serves as a suburban law enforcement officer, said raising awareness is a key part of stopping trafficking, which affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

“As your state representative, it is important to help raise awareness for human trafficking survivors and end this vicious crime, which impacts people from all walks of life,” Sheehan said. “This month, I urge all Illinoisans to learn the signs of human trafficking.”

Sheehan has co-sponsored and supported several measures in the Illinois General Assembly focused on protecting victims and holding offenders accountable. Among them is legislation that removed the statute of limitations for prosecuting human trafficking cases when the victim was under 18. That proposal, House Bill 1114, was adopted into law as Public Act 104-241.

He also backed changes to the Sex Offender Registration Act to require individuals convicted of trafficking or involuntary servitude to register as sex offenders under House Bill 1469.

Another law Sheehan supported, Public Act 103-1053, ensures that victims of childhood sexual abuse cannot be blamed in civil cases seeking damages for personal injuries related to that abuse. In addition, House Bill 5467 from the 103rd General Assembly removed time limits for prosecuting offenses such as trafficking or involuntary servitude when the victim was under 18.

Sheehan said these measures are intended to give survivors more time and legal support to seek justice while ensuring traffickers face lasting consequences.

For those who suspect human trafficking or need help, the National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24 hours a day at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting 233733.