Score: 0
(3/109/3)
Santa Cruz County Grand Jury
• 2025-2026
Human Trafficking in Santa Cruz County Voices Unheard, Signs Unseen
Published: June 30, 2025
28 pages
⚠️ Translation Notice: This content has been automatically translated. The original English text is the official version. Translation may contain errors.
⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.
Findings and Recommendations 13 findings
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F1,F2,F13)
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F1,F2,F13)
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to adopt a countywide ordinance, law enforcement should come into compliance with this new ordinance of adoption. (F9)
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F1,F2,F13)
Conclusions 1
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CL1 Page 18Human trafficking does occur in Santa Cruz County, but goes largely unrecognized and unreported. Lack of data regarding human trafficking activity, lack of collaboration among stakeholders, insufficient training, and lack of compliance with state and local laws leave us in the dark as to the prevalence of human trafficking. As a result, the issue is not being adequately addressed, and the trafficking problem will continue unabated and possibly increase, unless proactive measures are taken. The Jury is hopeful that recommendations in this report to address the scourge of human trafficking in our community will be seriously considered and adopted.
Agency Responses 21
Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.
▶
County Superintendent of Schools
August 29, 2025
•
5 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 2, 0)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
While the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (Santa Cruz COE) regularly provides human trafficking-related training to students and staff, we acknowledge there are areas for continued improvement. All Santa Cruz COE staff complete annual Mandated Reporter training, which includes content on recognizing signs of abuse and neglect, including elements of human trafficking. Additionally, supplemental trainings are offered to all staff, including a 1-hour Human Trafficking Awareness module as well as Rising Worldwide's survivor-led workshops. For students, our "Choosing Wisely" curriculum addres...
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Implemented
Due: February 28, 2026
Scheduled: Effective in the 2025-26 school year, all staff are required to complete annual Human Trafficking Awareness training.
Score: 0
The Santa Cruz COE is committed to strengthening current practices to ensure full compliance with AB 1227. Effective in the 2025-26 school year, all staff are required to complete annual Human Trafficking Awareness training that includes survivor perspectives. For students, human trafficking prevention remains part of the provided curriculum, with new procedures in place to confirm that students transferring into our programs, including Independent Studies, have met the requirement or will receive the instruction if they have not. In addition, the Santa Cruz COE will continue to raise awarenes...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
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Director, Santa Cruz County Community Development and Infrastructure
September 16, 2024
•
1 pages
View Details ▾
No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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Director, Santa Cruz County Community Development and Infrastructure
August 28, 2024
•
1 pages
View Details ▾
No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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Police Chief, City of Capitola
August 29, 2025
•
9 pages
• 6 responses
•
Score: +1
(+1, 5, 0)
View Details ▾
6 responses to findings and recommendations
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Will Implement
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: Interested in additional training from local providers
Score: +1
The Capitola Police Department is within compliance on California POST for Human Trafficking training. We would be interested in additional training from local providers.
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
The Grand Jury has reported that very few businesses are in compliance with SB 1193 (codified in Civil Code 52.6) signage requirements, but the Capitola Police Department has not verified this statement.
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe _X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required respons...
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Per the terms of SB 1193/Civil Code Section 52.6, it is Capitola Police Departments understanding that the Police Department is not authorized to enforce SB 1193/Civil Code section 52.6. Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 4 of 8
F12 . There has been a lack of hum...
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Implemented
Due: September 30, 2025
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury's recommendation to adopt a countywide ordinance, law enforcement should come into compliance with this new ordinance wi...
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the nocost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma. _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Capitola Police is within California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) training guidelines. We will be reaching out to local training providers to ensure o...
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Police Chief, City of Santa Cruz
August 29, 2025
•
9 pages
• 4 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 4, 0)
View Details ▾
4 responses to findings and recommendations
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe _X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required respons...
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity. AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): I agree the lack of inspections could result in undetected human trafficking activity. The Santa Cruz Police Department typically conducts regular inspections of massage businesses; however, recently due to significant staffing shortages we have not been able to conduct these i...
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Implemented
Due: September 30, 2025
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury's recommendation to adopt a countywide ordinance, law enforcement should come into compliance with this new ordinance wi...
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the nocost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Santa Cruz Police Department hosted a 4-hour Human Trafficking training by the District Attorney's Office in 2022. In 2023, we sent two detectives and our Victim Adv...
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Police Chief, City of Scotts Valley
August 29, 2025
•
9 pages
• 5 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 5, 0)
View Details ▾
5 responses to findings and recommendations
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response ...
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 5 of 8
Recommendations R4 .
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Scotts Valley Police Department is unaware of an annual inspection requirement, but we did an inspection of every massage business in the City of Scotts Valley this year. We do agree that inspections would potentially result in undetected human trafficking activity. Human ...
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Implemented
Due: September 30, 2025
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury's recommendation to adopt a countywide ordinance, law enforcement should come into compliance with this new ordinance wi...
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the nocost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 5 of 8
Recommendations R4 . Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Pol...
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Santa Cruz City Council
October 22, 2024
•
6 pages
• 1 response
•
Score: 0
(+0, 1, 0)
View Details ▾
1 response to findings and recommendations
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: Within 90 days
Score: 0
. Within 90 days the City should publish the summary of expenditures as presented to the City Council in May 2023 that expand on the figures provided in the FY 2024 Annual Budget. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: On May 23, 2023, during the budget presentation for the FY24 budget...
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Santa Cruz City Council
October 08, 2024
•
31 pages
• 19 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 19, 0)
View Details ▾
19 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. By highlighting a generic national statistic on stranger rape, rather than assessing local metrics in the CPVAW 2023 Report, the City is minimizing stranger rape and misleading the public into a possible false sense of security. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The CPVAW 2023 Annual Report includes, as approved by the Commission on November 1, 2023, data from the US Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Uniform Crime Report on Rape, which is data specific to the City of Santa Cruz. The Annual Repor...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Implemented
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: FY2023
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the City Council reevaluate the legal ability of CPVAW commissioners to access redacted police reports of rape as described in this investigation, and present the results of that research by December 31, 2024. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X__ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: Poli...
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The lack of attention to long-time Commission programs such as the Safe Place Network and the Bar Coaster program leaves residents and visitors without important resources for their personal safety. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Commission believes in leveraging their funds to partner with community-based organizations who specialize in providing victims of domestic violence and rape with much needed financial support to continue their successful programs and services. These organizations provide tangible reso...
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Due: August 31, 2025
Scheduled: FY2023
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the City Council begin evaluating options with the Santa Cruz City School District to reinstate the in-person self-defense program for middle and high school students of all genders by January 31, 2025. (F4) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe _X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Commiss...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The loss of the in-person self-defense program for boys and girls in Santa Cruz City Schools lessens students' ability to prevent sexual assault and interpersonal violence, inconsistent with the mandate of Ordinance 81-29. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Commission has offered self-defense classes either through City Schools and/or the Parks and Recreation Department. Over the years, participation in the Parks & Recreation program significantly declined, leading to the cancellation of classes. In FY2023, the Cit...
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the SCPD update its website to include the detailed metrics on Rape Incidents submitted to NIBRS and CIBRS, ensuring all data entries are accurate and available at each meeting of the CPVAW, and have this in place by January 31, 2025. (F8, F9) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _x_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation,...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The City's replacement of a dedicated 20-hour per week Commission staff position with rotating staff with minimal hours has resulted in a loss of visibility for the prevention of rape and domestic violence, a loss of community connections, a lack of programs, inadequate resource distribution and less public awareness. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The part-time Events Coordinator position was eliminated in 2016/2017 and replaced with a more senior staff member to provide enhanced support to the Commission. From 20...
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the SCPD reinstate community alerts for incidents of stranger rape, with case-by-case updates, by December 31, 2024. (F7) _x_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: SCPD never stopped executing community alerts for incidents of stranger rape when the circumstanc...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The City's refusal to allow the Commission continued access to redacted police reports prevents the Commission from making recommendations for police training and evaluating community complaints as required by Ordinance. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Commission received redacted police reports from approximately 1984 to 2010. However, around 2010-2017 the Commission began to receive summary demographic data from SCPD. From approximately 2017-2022 there was significant turnover in staff to the commission and a ...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the Commission and the SCPD submit comprehensive annual reports as called for in Ordinance 81-29, using the 2005-07 reports as a model, with the 2024 Annual Report placed on the Commission's agenda by December 31, 2024 and future reports submitted on a consistent, annual basis. (F1) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - ex...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The SCPD's decision to drop stranger rape alerts and case-by-case updates leaves the community unaware about this serious crime and therefore less safe. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X__ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): SCPD has not made the decision to drop stranger rape alerts and case-by-case updates. If there was a stranger rape case and an alert to the community was appropriate, SCPD would not hesitate to make the community aware. SCPD is very active on social media, and transparently shares valuable information with the community. Preventing Ra...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the 2023 Report be amended to remove the national entry on stranger rape, replacing it with accurate data for the City of Santa Cruz by December 31, 2024. (F2) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe X__ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The 2023 Annual Report provides a comprehensive data analys...
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The inconsistencies the Grand Jury found in SCPD's rape numbers means the public, the CPVAW and the City have no accurate metrics about reported rape, leaving the community ill-informed and Annual Commission Reports unreliable. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _x_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): City of Santa Cruz Ordinance No. 81-29 establishes specific responsibilities and cooperation between SCPD and CPVAW: Section 5(e): The Commission for the Prevention of Violence Against Women, in carrying out its duties shall have the authority to call upon me...
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the CPVAW update the status of the Safe Place Network and the Bar Coasters program. If the programs are to be discontinued, a public CPVAW meeting is advised for that decision. If the programs are to be continued, the date of January 31, 2025 is recommended for the full reinstatement of these programs. (F3) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __X (not to exceed six months) __ WIL...
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The SCPD and the Commission's lack of a consistent definition of rape leads to public confusion and potential undercounting of rape crimes in the City. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE _X_ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): When the Federal Government changed the definition of rape in 2013, SCPD immediately included the additional penal codes that now fall under the new definition and have been reporting these numbers since this change. The lack of consistency is more related to the different data collected and methodologies between UCR data, NIBRS/CIBRS,...
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that Focus Area 5, Public Safety of the 2023-28 Five Year Strategic Plan include an entry prioritizing the prevention of rape and domestic violence, as mandated by Ordinance 81-29, and published by February 28, 2025. (F10) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: T...
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The Five Year Strategic Plan's failure to include the prevention of rape and domestic violence leaves the community less aware and less safe. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X__ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The absence of rape and domestic violence prevention from the Public Safety focus area of the Five-Year Strategic Plan does not lessen its significance as a priority for the City. The recently adopted strategic plan serves as a framework that balances community needs with the City's resource capacity. It reflects the policy priorities set by the...
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the City Manager increase the visibility of the CPVAW programs and events by publishing relevant information, at least quarterly, in the City Manager's Weekly Update and that the first article be published by December 31, 2024. (F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _X_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, ...
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The City Manager's Weekly Update to the community has not highlighted the work of the CPVAW for the past two years, effectively relegating the prevention of rape and domestic violence to a low priority, leaving the public uninformed. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X__ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): There is no evidence to suggest that the absence of the Commission's activities in the City Manager's Weekly Updates has left the public uninformed or perceived as a low priority. The Weekly Update is a communication tool that shares relevant city activit...
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Santa Cruz City Manager
September 25, 2024
•
6 pages
View Details ▾
No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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Santa Cruz City Manager
September 16, 2024
•
6 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: -2
(+0, 1, -2)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Will Not Implement
Due: February 28, 2026
Scheduled: Annual update to City Council in June 2025
Score: -1
On May 23, 2023, during the budget presentation for the FY24 budget, staff provided a power point presentation which includes detailed expenditures for the $14M State of California Grant and the $4.7M ARPA funds on page 17 of the presentation. The FY24 expenditures for the homelessness response program are presented in three departments: City Manager's Office, Public Works and the Police Department. This document is available on-line on the city's website located here: . The recently adopted Three Year Homelessness Response Strategic Plan (Plan) requires an annual update to the City Council on...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
The Annual Budget as presented by the City of Santa Cruz provides an overview of General Fund revenues and expenditures and Capital Investment Program for the City. The budget document provides information about total expenditures by department and is not intended to be a detailed expenditure plan for a specific program as recommended by the Grand Jury.
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: Within 90 days
Score: 0
. Within 90 days the City should publish the summary of expenditures as presented to the City Council in May 2023 that expand on the figures provided in the FY 2024 Annual Budget. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X__ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: On May 23, 2023, during the budget presentation for the FY24 budget...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
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Santa Cruz Council
October 08, 2024
•
10 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 3, 0)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
for more information on the City's compliance monitoring. Please note per the previous response which included the breakdown of affordable units by affordability level that staff will post a comprehensive breakdown of affordable units by project to the City's website during the current calendar year. Housing For Whom? Due by September 19, 2024 Page 7 of 9
R3. The Grand Jury recommends that the Santa Cruz City Council document the percentage of the City's Inclusionary and 100% Affordable Housing units that are rented to UCSC students, making that data public by February 28, 2025 with annual up...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The City has no data on the percentage of units in Inclusionary and 100% Affordable Housing projects that are rented to UCSC students. This leaves the City and the public unable to assess the impact of UCSC on the local affordable housing supply. Such data is important for the City's ongoing negotiations with UCSC to build more on-campus housing. __ AGREE _x_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The City does not currently track the percentage of UCSC students occupying Inclusionary Units or 100% affordable housing projects. The City...
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the Santa Cruz City Council document the percentage of the City's Inclusionary and 100% Affordable Housing units that are rented to UCSC students, making that data public by February 28, 2025 with annual updates. (F3) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) _x_ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: A...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Grand Jury recommends that the Santa Cruz City Council create an Inclusionary Housing public dashboard that covers the data called for in this report by February 28, 2025. (F1, F2, F3) _x_ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The City does not want to stigmatize tenants of Inclusionary/...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
▶
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
September 24, 2025
•
20 pages
• 15 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 15, 0)
View Details ▾
15 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney's Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by September 29, 2025 Page 4 of 19
F3 . The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficki...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQU...
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by September 29, 2025 Page 4 of 19
F3 .
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe X (not to exceed ...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): CSEC MDT meetings were not held between November 2023 and June 2025. The biennial report indicates that meetings occur on an emergency basis, through case consultations with the CSEC coordinator, and mont...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office has not conducted an independent verification of the level of business compliance with SB 1193 (Civil Code section 52.6) signage requirements. Therefore, the Sheriff's Office cannot confirm the accuracy of the compliance rate re...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response ...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): To the extent human trafficking signs are not readily accessible and in poor condition, the County agrees that this could result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to seek assistance. However, it is unclear how p...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope...
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): It is correct that local jurisdictions maintain different municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses. The County cannot confirm whether, and to what extent, these differences result in confusion or inconsistent enforcement of applicable laws across juri...
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explai...
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - ex...
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by September 29, 2025 Page 10 of 19
F11 . Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAG...
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by September 29, 2025 Page 10 of 19
F11 .
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by September 29, 2025 Page 11 of 19
F13 .
▶
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
September 24, 2025
•
8 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: +2
(+2, 3, 0)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Will Implement
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: Goal of providing a more targeted and costeffective plan for meeting the County's future jail needs by October 31, 2026.
Score: +1
The Sheriff's Office has regular monthly meetings scheduled with the County Executive Office to continue discussions on alternative options. The Sheriff's Office has identified the need for a modern, standalone medical mental health facility as the most effective way to meet the County's acute and ongoing needs. These ongoing discussions are intended to help narrow the scope of the Jail Needs Assessment and minimize associated costs, with the goal of providing a more targeted and costeffective plan for meeting the County's future jail needs by October 31, 2026.
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Due: August 31, 2025
Scheduled: Department anticipates completion of the handbook by the end of 2026, followed by posting on the County intranet.
Score: 0
. The recently formed Community Development and Infrastructure Department (CDI) should review the policies and procedures of both the Public Works and Planning Departments and create a single set applicable to the whole CDI. Each section should be dated, and all future revisions should include date markings for any changes. This set of policies and procedures should be completed by the CDI and posted online by April 30, 2026. (F6, F7) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - X summarize what will be done and the timeframe R...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The County issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Jail Needs Assessment and received multiple proposals in response. However, due to cost concerns, the County decided not to move forward with the assessment opting to pause and reevaluate its overall approach to jail planning and construction.
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. There is no evidence that the Policies and Procedures Manual for the Planning Department is updated and available online. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): In 2022, the Planning Department was combined with the Public Works Department to form the Community Development and Infrastructure (CDI) Department. A new consolidated policies and procedures handbook is currently in development for CDI (see response to F7/R3). Separately, as noted in the Grand Jury's Code Compliance report, the procedures for Code Compliance have a...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
/R3). Separately, as noted in the Grand Jury's Code Compliance report, the procedures for Code Compliance have already been reviewed and posted online. Honoring Commitments Due by September 15, 2025 Page 4 of 7
F7 . In 2022-23, the Planning Department and Public Works Department were integrated to form the Community Development and Infrastructure Department. Since combining these departments, there is an effort underway to create a single set of policies and procedures, applicable to the whole department. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response ...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
▶
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
September 24, 2025
•
21 pages
• 16 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 16, 0)
View Details ▾
16 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The permitting process has become so detailed and intricate that it often requires applicant homeowners to hire professionals to make submissions, thus increasing cost and time. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The permitting process involves numerous regulatory components, including the California Building Code (CBC), the County's Local Coastal Program, and various state and federal environmental protection laws. These requirements are not unique to Santa Cruz County but are consistent statewide, and are implemented l...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The BoS should direct staff to adopt software that removes barriers to applicants and is comprehensive to all departments. The software should flag any permits that have been unaddressed for longer than two weeks to avoid application delays. This recommendation should be accomplished by January 1, 2026. (F7, F8) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - X summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - expla...
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Homeowners are often unaware that ordinary household maintenance requires a permit, leading them to unknowingly have the work performed illegally. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Permits are not required for many routine household maintenance activities. Examples include minor plumbing work such as repairing leaks or clearing stoppages; minor electrical work such as replacing lamps or connecting portable equipment; mechanical system work such as replacing filters or parts that do not affect system approval; and finish...
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The County of Santa Cruz should separate the Ombudsman duties from Manager of Unified Permit Center resulting in two separate positions: a fulltime, dedicated Ombudsman and a full-time Manager. The resulting new staff position should be filled by June 1, 2026. (F7, F8) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summar...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Some people willfully ignore obtaining a building permit because they think it's too costly, it takes too long, or they think they can't get the improvement they want by obeying the law. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Permitting Due by September 22, 2025 Page 6 of 20
F5 . Ignoring obtaining building permits causes a loss of revenue for the County, both in one-time fees from permits and, more importantly, in ongoing tax revenue from improved property. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (re...
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. The Ombudsman function should be clearly identified and publicized to make the public aware of the additional customer services that position provides. This recommendation should be accomplished by June 1, 2026. (F7, F8) X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timeframe: The Ombudsman function has been...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
the improvement they want by obeying the law. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Permitting Due by September 22, 2025 Page 6 of 20
F5 .
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County should develop a plan to educate the population about different permit types to reduce illegal builds through staff participation in community events, newspaper articles and/or other Unified Permit Center media involvements by Jan 1, 2026. (F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F10) X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response expla...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Professionals in the county can be difficult to find for a project because the permitting process is so difficult. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Building Division disagrees that the difficulty of the permitting process is the reason professionals are hard to find. The permit review process is designed to be clear and predictable through comprehensive submittal requirements and tools like the Camino Guide, which specifies necessary technical reports. These requirements stem from the California Building Code, stat...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County should establish a walk-up front desk service four hours per workday to assist home-owners, non-building professionals and small contractors navigate the permit process. This service should be posted on the website, implemented by Jan 1, 2026. (F3, F4, F5, F10) X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanati...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Applicants have a hard time tracking their project's progress because applications are not tracked end-to-end by permitting software. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): While the current permit tracking system (Infor) already allows applicants to monitor individual permits, the department recognizes the need for greater transparency around processing timelines. In response to the Baker Tilly audit, a Building Permit Tracking Dashboard was launched in June on the Planning Department website, providing public data on avera...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County BoS should reconvene the Building and Fire Code Appeals Board, populated by seasoned building professionals, to adjudicate permit disputes quickly, publicly, and professionally, and with less cost. This recommendation should be accomplished by Jan 1, 2026. (F9) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) X WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanati...
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The services of an Ombudsman could be utilized by tradespeople and homeowners to make the permitting process smoother and less costly. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County already employs an Ombudsman who helps applicants navigate the permitting process by addressing customer concerns, overseeing permit center operations, ensuring service standards are followed, and coordinating across review departments to resolve conflicts that could delay permits. This role is specifically designed to reduce time and costs fo...
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County BoS should direct the Building Department and any other relevant departments to review the State code parameters that allow county adjustments for building permit fees and find the least-cost, leastdelay alternative. Anything that can be free should be free. This recommendation should be accomplished by Jan 1, 2026. (F1, F2, F3) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months...
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The BFCA Board was disbanded, and the Appeals process, as currently constructed, is little known, not staffed by trade professionals, and therefore an ineffective means for resolving disputed decisions. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The policies, regulations, and hearing procedures of the Building and Fire Code Appeals Board are set forth in Santa Cruz County Code Section 12.12. While the Board was previously composed of industry representatives, it is now comprised of the Board of Supervisors, and this change has n...
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The DIYer and the small contractors need the support and/or instant answers they get from a knowledgeable staff person at the counter. However that service no longer exists. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Building Department continues to provide direct support to DIYers and small contractors through walk-in counter hours Monday-Thursday from 8:00-9:00 a.m., as well as scheduled appointments Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to noon and Monday-Tuesday afternoons. Appointments may be held in person, by phone, or via M...
▶
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
September 24, 2025
•
19 pages
• 13 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 13, 0)
View Details ▾
13 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Administrative: The Jury finds that many programs, such as the Focus Intervention Team, Integrated Housing And Recovery Team, 24/7 Mobile Crisis Response Team, and Enhanced Care Management, provide critical services to High-Cost Beneficiaries. Although they have overlapping goals there is little to no coordination for tracking clients that receive services from one or more of these programs. The lack of coordination leads to higher costs in an era of shrinking resources. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Multiple mechan...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Implemented
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: fiscal year 2026-27
Score: 0
. Ongoing External Reporting. Given the urgency of diminishing funding, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency should publish a monthly report on its public website no later than October 1, 2025. The website should summarize patient volumes, cost benchmarks, quality benchmarks, provider productivity, number of patients being tracked for high utilization, and number of patients enrolled in Enhanced Care Management (through the Alliance). An appropriate subset of reports specific to Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder should be provided to the Mental Health Advisory Board beginnin...
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Clinical: Santa Cruz County does not have a Level of Care Tool to track and manage High-Cost Beneficiaries. The Central California Alliance for Health does have a Level of Care Tool to track and manage High-Cost Beneficiaries. The parties are partners in the delivery of services and their resources could be leveraged to create a unified Level of Care tool. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Since January 1, 2023, the State has required the use of the Screening and Transition of Care Tools for Medi-Cal Mental Health Servi...
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Ongoing External Reporting: In order to leverage their partnership with the Mental Health Advisory Board (MHAB) and raise public awareness around Behavioral Health in Santa Cruz County, the Health Services Agency and the Central California Alliance for Health should jointly report to the MHAB. Their reporting should occur at least bi-annually starting no later than June 30, 2026. Their report should discuss their collaborative efforts towards implementing a LoC tool, their progress towards developing value-based financing and should include Year-to-Date statistics on HCBs. __ HAS BEEN IMPLEM...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Administrative: Santa Cruz County programs and resources for High- Cost Beneficiaries, and all Health Services Agency behavioral health and substance use disorder services, are siloed and fragmented across HSA departments and contract providers. For example, clinical, financial, and operational benchmarks are not being used to report the cost of services and track patient acuity. As new programs are being developed, the financial, operational, and administrative targets are not established in advance or integrated into operations. County and Alliance collaboration and coordination can pave t...
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Ongoing External Reporting: At least bi-annually beginning no later than September 30, 2025, Health Services Agency (HSA) and the Central California Alliance for Health (Alliance) should meet jointly with Serving Communities Health Information Organization (SCHIO). The meeting agenda should include a review of the data HSA and the Alliance submit to SCHIO and the SCHIO data and reporting features that HSA and the Alliance use. The goal is to leverage their partnership and better integrate the dissemination of accurate information to health care professionals and law enforcement about the tre...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Data, Clinical & Administrative: The Central California Alliance for Health (Alliance) has substantial financial reserves, and Santa Cruz County has seats on the governing board of the Alliance. Clinical, financial and operational collaboration between these agencies, who are both insurers and providers, needs to be better coordinated and integrated at all levels to improve treatment and outcomes for all clients. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Behavioral Health Division (BHD) operates the Mental Health Plan (MHP)...
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Clinical Integration. Annually, beginning January 1, 2026, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency and the Central California Alliance for Health should review, align, and jointly publish their aligned clinical and program delivery methods and goals for all levels of Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder patients. X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLE...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Administrative: The Jury finds that the Serving Communities Health Information Organization and the Mental Health Advisory Board partnerships with Santa Cruz County could be better leveraged to have greater impact on Behavioral Health. Failure to leverage these partnerships results in missed opportunities to coordinate programs and services. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Behavioral Health Division (BHD) engages in multiple coordination efforts with both the Serving Communities Health Information Organization (SC...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Administrative, Financial & Clinical. By July 1, 2026, the Santa Cruz Health Services Agency and the Central California Alliance for Health should have a shared database and shared criteria for identifying potential High-Cost Beneficiaries. This Level of Care tool should track costs, services, and outcomes for not only Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder High- Cost Beneficiaries, but for all clients. The following California Health Care Foundation brief provides a starting point for building a more integrated system of care over the long term: Better Integrate Physical and Behaviora...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Compassion: Throughout the Grand Jury investigation, the Jury found that the staff and leadership of the Health Services Agency, Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, and the Central California Alliance for Health are compassionate in the treatment of people experiencing behavioral health or substance use disorder. Patients are treated with dignity and respect, despite sometimes difficult conditions. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): High-Cost Beneficiaries Due by September 24, 2025 Page 9 of 18
Recommendations R1 . Admi...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Administrative Integration. The Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency and the Central California Alliance for Health should develop a seamless administrative process that uses standardized and shared data, reports and goals. No later than December 31, 2026, a report shall be submitted to the respective governing boards outlining the processes established to integrate network management, provider payment, and data collection and reporting. __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the t...
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
. Financial Integration. On or before July 1, 2027, the County Health Services Agency and the Central California Alliance for Health should report to their respective governing boards the steps they have taken towards financial integration of all behavioral health services and substance use services using a value based financing process. Braiding Medicaid Funds described in the August 2024 Brief from the California Health Care Foundation provides a framework for achieving this necessary integration. __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE...
▶
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
September 04, 2025
•
13 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 8, 0)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Responsibility for the County's Outreach efforts isn't clearly defined. Even interested citizens have trouble finding updates. __ AGREE X PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County established the Office of Response, Recovery and Resilience (OR3) in 2020 to lead countywide efforts related to climate resilience and sustainability, including the implementation of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP). OR3 serves as the central point of coordination for climate-related initiatives, including public engagement activities. Th...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Implemented
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: within 90 days
Score: 0
. The Board of Supervisors should require OR3 to update all public-facing websites every quarter and post on their social media to reflect the CAAP actions being taken within the County offices. Completion date: October 1, 2025, and ongoing. (F3, F4, F5, F7). __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - X summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response explanation, summary, and timef...
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The County Staff and the Commission on the Environment (COE) charged with reporting to superiors (i.e., Board of Supervisors) don't stay current in publicly publishing their actions regarding the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP). __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): County staff and the Commission on the Environment (COE) regularly collaborate to provide updates on the progress of Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) strategies and objectives during publicly noticed meetings. These meetings are conducted in a...
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Implemented
Due: August 31, 2025
Scheduled: within 90 days
Score: 0
. When the County spends money or staff time on any climate efforts addressing the state-mandated CAAP, the Board of Supervisors should ensure these actions are publicized to inspire and inform the taxpaying citizens. Completion date: within 90 days of any significant expenditure. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F7). X HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe __ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why R...
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Staff charged with instigating/tracking/coordinating efforts required by the CAAP do not consider public Outreach part of their task. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Office of Response, Recovery and Resilience (OR3) actively incorporates public outreach into its work, including participation in community events, stakeholder meetings, and direct engagement on the County's climate initiatives. Public engagement is considered an integral part of advancing the goals of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), co...
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Money was spent to create progress trackers on the CAAP Storymap Website, but no one is updating the progress. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): OR3 is in the process of developing a new tracking and reporting dashboard and has identified a vendor to implement the system. The updated platform will support more timely updates by County departments and improve accessibility for the public. Climate Due by September 2, 2025 Page 7 of 12
F6 . Money has been spent to create another interactive website (Resilient Santa Cruz) ...
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Money has been spent to create another interactive website (Resilient Santa Cruz) for the interested citizen, but that website is not being publicized, and the modest participation goals have not been met. __ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE X DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The County of Santa Cruz is not a fiscal sponsor of the Resilient Santa Cruz website and does not fund or manage its content. The Resilient Santa Cruz County platform is powered by BrightAction engagement software, which provides technology infrastructure for user engagement. Funding ...
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. County web pages and social media specifically created for reporting to the public have been allowed to languish and are not populated with recent news items on CAAP goal progress. X AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): OR3 is currently updating its website and developing a new CAAP progress dashboard to enhance public engagement and transparency. Climate Due by September 2, 2025 Page 9 of 12
Recommendations R1 . The Board of Supervisors should assign an office to own the task of proactive Outreach related to the CAAP. This...
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
▶
Santa Cruz County District Attorney
September 04, 2025
•
7 pages
• 2 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 2, 0)
View Details ▾
2 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney's Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. _x_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): AB379, if enacted, is a competitive grant that would provide funding for up to 11 district attorney's offices in the State of California ...
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases. _x_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The District Attorney's Office has been collaborating with Sheriff's Office as they explore the creation of a regional task force dedicated to investigating sexual assaults and related crimes, including human trafficking. Th...
▶
Santa Cruz County Sheriff
August 29, 2025
•
13 pages
• 22 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 9, 0)
View Details ▾
22 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
While the Sheriff's Office does track a multitude of criminal statistics, we are not aware of "consolidated data" being collected in Santa Cruz County as it relates to human trafficking. We cannot agree that there is an "understatement of the problem."
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney's Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. X_ AGREE _ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 4 of 12
F6 . Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage...
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Implemented
Due: December 31, 2025
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - X_ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explai...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. X_ AGREE _ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 4 of 12
F6 .
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Implemented
Due: June 30, 2026
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6) __ HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED - summarize what has been done HAS NOT YET BEEN IMPLEMENTED BUT WILL BE IN THE FUTURE - __ summarize what will be done and the timeframe REQUIRES FURTHER ANALYSIS - explain the scope and timeframe X_ (not to exceed six months) __ WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED - explain why Required response...
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity. __ AGREE X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): The Sheriff's Office has been unable to locate a requirement that an annual inspection is required. That said, we agree that the chance of discovering human trafficking would increase with more inspections. Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 6 of 12
F12 . There ha...
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Implemented
Due: September 30, 2025
Scheduled: within 30 days
Score: 0
. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff's Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury's recommendation to adopt a countywide ordinance, law enforcement should come into compliance with this new ordinance wi...
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking. X_ AGREE _ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 4 of 12
F6 .
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases. X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): Human Trafficking Due by August 29, 2025 Page 8 of 12
Recommendations R1 . The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, incl...
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Santa Cruz County Sheriff
August 18, 2025
•
5 pages
View Details ▾
No structured response data extracted yet.
View the PDF for full details.
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Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools
June 11, 2024
•
7 pages
• 3 responses
•
Score: 0
(+0, 3, 0)
View Details ▾
3 responses to findings and recommendations
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. The 95076 zip code has an extraordinarily high number of patient transfers to outside the county compared to other zip codes of Santa Cruz county. This indicates a major lack of healthcare facilities and services to serve the community. __ AGREE _X_ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): This finding does not directly relate to programs or data under the purview of the Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools or the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (COE). We anticipate a more detailed response from the Health Services Agency (H...
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
. A study of socioeconomic indicators of the 95076 zip code, compared to other zip codes of Santa Cruz county, reveal a dire need to improve the following: Homelessness Low Preschool Enrollment Poor Health Care Access Unemployment Support for Single Parent Households _X_ AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): County Behavioral Health Services Due by August 12, 2024 Page 5 of 6
Recommendations R4. The Grand Jury recommends that Behavioral Health Services, County Office of Education, and the Board of Supervisors develop and publi...
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
AGREE __ PARTIALLY DISAGREE __ DISAGREE Response explanation (required for a response other than Agree): County Behavioral Health Services Due by August 12, 2024 Page 5 of 6
Recommendations R4.
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Superintendent, Santa Cruz City Schools
September 25, 2024
•
6 pages
• 23 responses
•
Score: -1
(+0, 0, -1)
View Details ▾
23 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
There is currently no consolidated data being collected on Santa Cruz County human trafficking cases. This causes an understatement of the problem and makes it difficult for stakeholders to obtain additional funding.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R1
The Department of Human Services should designate a qualified staff member to take the lead in forming a countywide human trafficking coalition, including the District Attorney and the Sheriff’s Office. Members should include stakeholders discussed in this report who are involved in the prevention and interdiction of human trafficking. The focus should include the consolidation of human trafficking data and the procurement of additional funds, potentially to fund law enforcement task forces. Thi...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F2
The potential passage of AB 379 may provide grants for the District Attorney’s Office for the prosecution of traffickers and grants for community-based organizations for direct services and victim outreach. This could provide the resources necessary to ultimately reduce human trafficking and reduce the likelihood of victims returning to trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R2
The Program Manager of Family & Child Services should coordinate with Monterey and San Benito County peers for the purpose of reconvening the tri-county Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children steering committee. This team would meet regularly to review and track intercounty human trafficking cases and activity in our region and participate in regional prevention activities. This should be completed by December 31, 2025. (F3)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F3
The tri-county CSEC steering committee for the prevention of human trafficking has not met for a full year as of the publication of this report. Therefore, there is no active body that could potentially monitor trafficking cases across the tri-county area.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R3
The Program Manager of County Family & Child Services should resume and maintain monthly multidisciplinary team meetings, required as a condition of receiving Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children funding, to review ongoing human trafficking cases and discuss other potential cases involving high-risk youth. This should commence by August 31, 2025. (F4)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F4
The County Family & Child Services CSEC-required monthly multidisciplinary team meetings have not been held since November 2023, despite biennial reporting otherwise to the State Department of Social Services. Therefore, known cases of human trafficking have not been properly overseen.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
, the Grand Jury appears to be unaware of the comprehensive programs and activities currently implemented by the Santa Cruz City School District for preventing sexual assault, interpersonal violence, and promoting personal safety. Our present curriculum and systems offer a significantly broader and more in-depth safety education compared to the in-person program previously provided in partnership with the Commission for the Prevention of Violence Against Women (CPVAW). The former program did not adequately equip students with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of domestic violen...
R4
Each law enforcement agency in Santa Cruz County, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should require law enforcement officers to receive an annual human trafficking awareness training, preferably led by human trafficking survivors. This should commence by December 31, 2025. (F12)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F5
Staff and administration of the County Office of Education report they are not adequately trained and do not receive regular training regarding human trafficking as required by AB 1227. This is in spite of the fact that free training is available from local providers that could bring COE into compliance if enforced. This deficiency can lead to a failure in the staff’s ability to identify cases of trafficking.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R5
The County Office of Education should come into compliance with AB 1227, providing human trafficking-related training, led by survivors, to students and staff as required. This should be completed by February 28, 2026. (F5)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F6
Very few businesses in Santa Cruz County are in compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. This results in the reduction of community awareness of the problem and the likelihood that trafficking victims will be able to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R6
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt an umbrella countywide ordinance requiring human trafficking signage currently mandated by the State to be part of all existing permitting and licensing procedures for affected businesses. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F6)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F7
Existing human trafficking signs at farm worker contractor sites are not readily accessible to farm workers and are in poor condition. This can result in farm workers being unaware of available resources and an inability to reach out for help.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R7
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should require that county-specific human trafficking awareness and support signs include at least one 24/7 local hotline number, and staff should collaborate with local non-profits providing support to human trafficking victims to develop an effective sign for countywide posting and distribution. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F10, F11)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F8
The mix of County and local municipal ordinances regarding the licensing and inspection of massage businesses varies, possibly causing confusion and inconsistent enforcement of existing regulations.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R8
The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner should come into compliance with SB 1193 by ensuring that existing human trafficking signs are refreshed annually. In addition, it should require all farm labor contractors to include the SB 1193 sign in employee handbooks for easy accessibility. A review for compliance should be done on an annual basis. This should commence by September 30, 2025. (F7)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F9
Annual inspections are required of massage businesses in jurisdictions with massage business ordinances, but inspections are generally not being conducted. This can result in undetected human trafficking activity.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R9
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors should adopt a countywide ordinance regulating the licensing, employee certification, and inspection requirements for massage businesses consistent with California Massage Therapy Council certification and licensing requirements. This should be completed by June 30, 2026. (F8)
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F10
Calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline on existing signs have unacceptably long wait times and can result in a lost opportunity to assist human trafficking victims.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
R10
Local law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s Office, Santa Cruz Police Department, Scotts Valley Police Department, Capitola Police Department, and Watsonville Police Department, should enforce massage business licensing, certification, and inspection requirements. This should include compliance with SB 1193 signage requirements. Enforcement of existing ordinances should commence by September 30, 2025. However, if/when the Board of Supervisors agrees to the Jury’s recommendation to ad...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F11
Local nonprofit organizations have 24/7 hotline numbers that are staffed, and calls can be answered immediately or within minutes, greatly increasing the likelihood of contacting victims and providing assistance in real time.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F12
There has been a lack of human trafficking presentations to law enforcement. Local law enforcement jurisdictions could request the no-cost training that is available from local human trafficking service providers. This can lead to officers learning to identify human trafficking victims and reduce further victim trauma.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
F13
Law enforcement task forces focused solely on human trafficking are very effective methods of detecting and preventing human trafficking activities. Such task forces could increase the rate of interdiction and the successful prosecution of human trafficking cases.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
No Responses Found 2
Government entities assigned to respond to this report. No response documents have been linked in our database.
Watsonville
City