HOUSTON – The state awarded Harris County prosecutors $4.4 million in grants aimed at helping victims of violent crime and combating sex trafficking.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said Monday that the money from the four grants provided by the Texas Governor’s Criminal Justice Division will be used during the next two years to support victims with an array of services.
"Violent criminals toss victims into the criminal justice system without regard to the harm they are inflicting,” Ogg said. “It is traumatic, stressful and confusing.”
Andrea Sparks, who represents the governor’s Child Sex Trafficking Team, said cooperation between agencies is a key to stopping the illegal industry.
“The Governor’s Office is committed not only to bringing justice to those who exploit our young Texans, but also providing the trauma-informed services survivors of sexual exploitation need to heal," Sparks said.
Ogg also touted the importance of working together with other agencies.