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Safety planning is essential.

It is important to engage in trauma-informed safety planning with the victim to ensure that the victim is safe throughout the investigation. At the earliest stage possible, it is recommended that investigators get a victim advocate involved and make appropriate referrals to victim services agencies that can assist with safety planning.

In addition, it may be appropriate to ask additional questions to determine the level of risk. This may involve asking any of the following questions:

Are you safe?

What are you afraid will happen?

Have you ever been threatened?

Do you owe a debt to anyone?

Are you afraid of deportation?

What do you think would happen if the perpetrator knew that you had spoken with us?

Do you feel like you need to work? If so, why?

What would happen if you did not work?

Victims should play a primary role in safety planning, and safety plans must take into consideration the victim’s unique circumstances, past trauma history, immigration status, mental health needs, potential need to generate income, and educational needs. Plans must be made on a case-by-case basis tailored to the victim’s needs. In particular, many victims are exploited because they need to generate income to assist their family. It is essential for investigators to address the victim’s concerns about financially supporting family members. Otherwise, the victim may remain at risk to future victimization.