Reagan Lodge Lakeview Room Ronald Reagan Lodge at VOA 7850 VOA Park Drive West Chester, OH 45069 Driving Directions
Each year, throughout the United States, thousands of people become victims of human trafficking, abducted or coerced into activities that destroy their future. Victims may be forced into sex slavery, illegal drug sales or working as unpaid laborers. When offenses bring them into contact with the court system, society has an opportunity to help the victims escape a destructive life. Judge Paul Herbert, of the Columbus Municipal Court will explain how his program attempts to help these victims and provide the resources to help them change their circumstances and prospects for the future. Judge Herbert will also bring a former victim to present her compelling story, detail her struggles and ascent to a better life.
Speaker Bio
Judge Paul Herbert is a lifelong resident of Columbus, Ohio Along with wife, Barb, they have raised two daughters, now attending college. Judge Herbert has been practicing law for 27 years. A graduate of The Ohio State University and Capital University Law School (attending at night), he worked in private practice before joining the staff of the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office and served as a trial attorney. In 1991, he became the Chief of Staff for the Franklin County Municipal Court Clerk's Office. In 1996, he assumed the role of Clerk of Court,serving for 7 years before being elected Judge in 2003. Judge Herbert was re-elected to that position in 2009. While serving as a Judge, he proposed a specialized program focusing on Human Trafficking victims who have been charged with the misdemeanor offense of solicitation. CATCH (changing actions to change habits) was started in September 2009. The results have been nothing short of miraculous. Women now have a safe path to exit this vicious lifestyle, they are being reunited with their families, not committing new offenses, furthering their educations and giving back to the community in significant ways.
