North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which term refers to someone knowingly holding another in involuntary servitude?

1. Human trafficking

2. Labor dispute

3. Involuntary servitude

4. Unlawful confinement

The correct answer is: Involuntary servitude

The term that best describes someone knowingly holding another in involuntary servitude is "involuntary servitude." This term specifically refers to a condition in which an individual is forced to work against their will, typically under the threat of coercion or punishment. Involuntary servitude encompasses various scenarios where a person is compelled to provide labor or services without their consent and often in violation of legal and human rights protections. While human trafficking involves similar elements, it is broader and includes the illegal trade of individuals for various forms of exploitation, not limited solely to servitude. A labor dispute typically refers to conflicts between employees and employers regarding work conditions, pay, or other employment terms, which does not inherently involve coercion. Unlawful confinement can refer to the restriction of a person's freedom of movement but does not necessarily imply that the individual is being compelled to work. Therefore, "involuntary servitude" precisely captures the act of holding someone against their will for labor purposes.