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Gov. Rick Scott highlights efforts to fight against human trafficking

$6.8 million to help victims
Posted at 5:37 PM, Jun 27, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-27 17:37:36-04

She calls herself living proof of success in Florida’s fight against human trafficking.

"Today I am a new woman, I'm filled with confidence, wisdom, full of courage, self-worth and I'm also full of love today," Brandi, who declined to give her last name, told a crowd of reporters at Mary Lee's House.

Brandi says she spent 12 years living on the streets being brainwashed and sold into prostitution. Her saving grace?
 
A second chance.
 
"We have great stories around the state. We are putting money into the budget for safe houses, other services," Gov. Rick Scott said. 

Scott is putting $6.8 million into funding at least seven safe homes across the state, including almost $2.5 million to three in the Tampa area.

He’s also pushing for harsher penalties for those doing the trafficking, something Brandi says from her experience will make all the difference.

"I've been able to learn about myself and not just labeled and thrown in jail. Two years I have a completely different life I am not on the sidewalk, I am in front of the TV."