Human trafficking victim rescued, suspect arrested in San Mateo

SAN MATEO, California. – A man was arrested Wednesday after a woman accused him of human trafficking in San Mateo.

San Mateo police arrived at a local hospital around 1:20 p.m. Thursday after receiving a report of human trafficking. At the hospital, the victim told medical staff that her employer, identified as Qi Li, was threatening her. She also told authorities that she was a victim of human trafficking.

The victim told authorities that she came to the United States on a work visa to work for the family as a caregiver for a young child, but that upon her arrival, Li confiscated her passport and verbally abused her over the next few months.

The victim accused Li of denying her personal freedoms and not paying her for her services as a nanny.

The victim claimed that he once held a knife to her throat and said he would kill her.

The victim was provided with temporary safe housing and support services.

Li was arrested and charged with human trafficking, criminal threats and use of a weapon. He was booked into the San Mateo County Jail but has since been released on bail.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the San Mateo Police Department. Information about human trafficking can be found here.