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Documented on the original SlaveryMap (2008–2016). We don’t have a verifiable source on file yet. Know one?
What happened
The workers were trafficked by the Company Audubon Pointe, a New Orleans apartment complex affected by Katrina. Audubon Pointe housed the non documented workers in their unfinished apartments while they renovated other apartments. The workers were frequently unpaid or paid very late. When the workers complained, management threatened to evict them and call the police. These threats forced the workers to continue work without pay.
Response and intervention
After receiving the letter, Audubon Pointe talked to ICE and had 7 other workers detained 5 days later. Only two of these workers were named on the complaint letter. These workers have been in jail since February 27, 2008. As of April 15, 2008 the detained workers were granted U-Visas so that they wouldn't be deported. In early 2007 6 workers were kicked out of their housing without notice because they complained about non payment. They filed a law suit against Audubon in February 2009. 6 workers contacted Southern Poverty Law center and came up with a complaint letter. Once that happened Audubon informed the police of the non documented workers, and they were detained.