[Los Angeles, California] In a resolute move against human trafficking, the Los Angeles city attorney’s office has filed a lawsuit targeting the New Gage Motel situated near the Gage Avenue and Figueroa Street intersection in South L.A. The area, known as ‘the Figueroa Corridor’ or ‘the track,’ is notorious for being one of the most significant human trafficking corridors in the U.S., as stated by Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto.
Despite previous efforts by the city attorney’s office, the New Gage Motel has consistently evaded compliance. Partnering with the US Attorney’s Office, Feldstein Soto implies potential felony charges stemming from the ongoing operations.
Based on data provided by the Los Angeles Police Department, a noticeable increase in sex and human trafficking-related crimes in the vicinity was observed a decade ago. These crimes peaked alarmingly in 2020, though recent figures suggest a decline akin to levels recorded in 2016. Additionally, violent crime rates, which also reached a peak in 2020, continue to remain worryingly high.
Digging deeper into the issues surrounding the New Gage Motel, the city’s investigations have unveiled over a dozen prostitution-linked arrests. Alarmingly, some of these cases involved minors. Feldstein Soto starkly highlighted the grave nature of the issue, revealing that the average age of a trafficked minor in the area stands shockingly at 12.
Los Angeles city’s legal actions squarely focus on the businesses, with a goal to dismantle the rampant violent and trafficking crimes. Emphasizing the intent, Feldstein Soto stated, “This is aimed at disrupting the demand for trafficked sex,” targeting the very root of the problem.
Efforts to obtain a statement from the New Gage Motel’s operators yielded no response.
Were you or someone you know affected by such heinous crimes? Contact the dedicated attorneys at Women’s Rights Group today. We are committed to assisting victims of sex trafficking in motels, hotels, and other commercial establishments secure the compensation they rightly deserve for their anguish. Your pain is valid, and you deserve justice. Call us today.
