The Human Trafficking Policy Victory began with one father's determination. Shortly after Jessica Malone turned 18, she went missing. When her father, Gabriel Contreras, reported her missing, he discovered there were limited legal options available, since she was legally considered an adult.

 

That’s when he began meeting with law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, the County Board of Supervisors, city officials, state legislators, and other elected leaders to advocate for stronger protections for victims and survivors.

 

Those collaborative efforts led to a public action spearheaded by then-Chair Nora Vargas, bringing together Supervisor Jim Desmond, District Attorney Summer Stephan, representatives from the California Attorney General’s Office, advocates like Marisa Ugarte, Point Loma Nazarene University, survivor advocates, and numerous community organizations.

 

Together, they called for meaningful policy changes to strengthen San Diego County’s response to human trafficking through education, prevention, public awareness, and enhanced support for survivors.

 

As a result, the County introduced Board Item 18: Education, Prevention, and Enhancement Human Trafficking Policies. The initiative expanded public awareness through billboards, trolley and bus station advertisements, informational flyers, and educational outreach in schools, churches, and community organizations.

It also strengthened prevention efforts through programs such as No More, led by Point Loma Nazarene University.

 

On January 25, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted to approve these recommendations, marking a significant milestone in the County’s commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors.

These policy changes were inspired by Jessica Malone’s story and made possible through the tireless advocacy of Gabriel Contreras. Their determination transformed a family’s personal tragedy into meaningful public action, creating resources and opportunities that continue to benefit survivors, families, and communities throughout San Diego County.

 

Today, Fe y Esperanza proudly carries that mission forward. Building on the foundation these policies helped establish, this nonprofit provides survivor-led awareness presentations, prevention education, community outreach, and advocacy throughout San Diego County.

 

By partnering with schools, churches, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations, the organization educates youth, families, and professionals about the warning signs of human trafficking while connecting communities with life-saving resources.

 

What began as one father’s fight to bring his daughter home has become a lasting movement dedicated to prevention, education, advocacy, and hope—ensuring that more survivors are seen, heard, protected, and supported.