Backers of initiative to increase prison sentences for human trafficking bring campaign to Palm Springs

PALM SPRINGS - Activists behind a ballot initiative that would increase prison sentences for international trafficking of prostitutes will bring their campaign to Palm Springs on Thursday, a spokeswoman said today.

Backers of the Californians Against Sexual Exploitation Act need about 500,000 valid voter signatures to qualify for the November ballot. They say they have already gathered more than 865,000 signatures.

The proposed measure would increase penalties for human trafficking, sexual exploitation and sexual predators who use the Internet to find their victims.

To help publicize the campaign, survivors of human trafficking will discuss their experiences during a vigil and demonstration at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Palm Canyon Drive and Alejo Road, said Sarah Hersh, a spokeswoman for the initiative.

Daphne Phung, founder of Californians Against Slavery, and Mary Battin of Operation Safe House of the Desert are also scheduled to speak.

Another vigil is scheduled for Friday at 6 p.m. at Riverside City Hall, 3900 Main St.

In addition to increased prison terms, the initiative would require all registered sex offenders to disclose their Internet accounts and require convicted human traffickers to pay for services meant to help victims.

For information on the CASE Act, go to http://www.caseact.org.