Human Trafficking

“Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked in countries around the world, including the United States. It is estimated that human trafficking generates many billions of dollars of profit per year, second only to drug trafficking as the most profitable form of transnational crime.” –Homeland SecurityTrafficking is defined the use of force, fraud, or coercion to lure victims and force them into labor or commercial sexual exploration.

There are many barriers for victims of trafficking to come forward including language, fear of traffickers and/or fear of law enforcement.

Indicators of Trafficking:

• The person may appear disconnected from any family, friends or community organizations
• The may have a sudden or dramatic change in behavior including being fearful, timid or submissive
• They may engage in commercial sex acts
• They show signs of confusion, disorientation, mental and physical abuse
• They may always be accompanied by someone who seems to control their every move or doesn’t allow the victim to speak for themselves
• They are not able to freely leave or fear for their safety if they leave
• They lack possessions and/or living in unsuitable conditions

Resource for this page: Homeland Security