Victims of sex trafficking are rarely locked away in some private dungeon. They are held captive in plain view of ordinary people, disguised as relatives or friends of their victimizers.
Signs a person may be a sex trafficking victim:
- Not in possession of their own identification or travel documents
- Not free to move around independently, socialize at all or attend religious services
- Of school age but not in school
- Being deprived of food, water, sleep, medical care or other life necessities
- Has few personal possessions
- Seems fearful or anxious in normal situations
- Has tattoos or other markings (e.g., bar codes) that show ownership
- Has a much older sexual/romantic partner
- Claims to be “just visiting” or “only passing through” with no ability to clarify reason for visit or final destination
- Cannot speak on their own behalf
Signs a person may be a trafficker:
- Carries multiple cell phones
- Carries several hotel key cards
- Suddenly acquires a lot of expensive things
- Speaks for the “group”
- Only pays cash for rooms
If you suspect someone is a victim or a perpetrator, call 888.373.7888 or, in an emergency, call 911.