Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is a form of human trafficking in which individuals are exploited for the purposes of commercial sex. This can include prostitution, as well as other forms of sexual exploitation such as pornography or exotic dancing. Victims of sex trafficking are often coerced or forced into the sex trade, and may be threatened or physically harmed if they try to leave. Being trafficked for sex is a global problem and can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is important to recognize the signs of sex trafficking and to report any suspected cases to the appropriate authorities.

Anyone can be vulnerable to sex trafficking, although certain groups are at higher risk. This includes individuals who are marginalized or disadvantaged due to factors such as poverty, lack of education, and lack of access to opportunities. It also includes individuals who have experienced trauma, such as sexual abuse or domestic violence, as well as those who are struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. Additionally, certain populations may be particularly vulnerable to sex trafficking, such as undocumented immigrants, individuals who are homeless or living in shelters, and individuals who are involved in the child welfare or foster care systems. Sex traffickers often target individuals who are vulnerable and may be less likely to report the abuse or seek help.

If you or someone you know is a victim, there are several steps you can take to get help. The first and most important step is to reach out for support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals who can provide assistance and guidance. This may include contacting a hotline or crisis center that specializes in assisting victims, or reaching out to law enforcement for help. It is also important to seek medical care and support for any physical or psychological trauma that you may have experienced as a result of the trafficking. You can also contact organizations that specialize in providing services to victims of sex trafficking, such as victim advocacy groups, legal organizations, and social service agencies. These organizations can provide you with information, support, and assistance as you navigate the process of recovery.

Secretary of state talks human trafficking awareness with Waterloo Rotary Club
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Secretary of state talks human trafficking awareness with Waterloo Rotary Club

Andy Milone   WATERLOO — Human trafficking is a complex, international issue. But right here in Iowa, Secretary of State Paul Pate wants businesses and nonprofit organizations to know they can play a role by becoming aware of the signs and how to respond appropriately. He spoke to a crowd of about 50 people at…

DPS: 30 children found in human trafficking operation
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DPS: 30 children found in human trafficking operation

MIDLAND-ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) – On Tuesday May 9, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (CID) ran a missing and exploited child operation and found a total of 30 children. The age of youngest child recovered was 13 years of age. Law enforcement’s goal was to find or recover children reported missing in Midland…

EOF: Protecting potential of young girls in Nigeria, others | The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News
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EOF: Protecting potential of young girls in Nigeria, others | The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

It was to chart a new course for the girl-child, from lack of access to menstrual education to the risks of involvement in human trafficking, that the Emmanuel Osemota Foundation (EOF), a multinational nonprofit organisation empowering local communities in Nigeria and South Florida through accessible education and high-quality healthcare, stepped in. With research revealing that…

Has human trafficking increased or decreased in the US?
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Has human trafficking increased or decreased in the US?

From a historical perspective, America can boast that slavery was abolished and defeated long ago. And while the legalization of slavery was certainly brought to an end, modern slavery is still an illegal concern that operates worldwide, including in the United States. What many people do not realize is how big of a problem it…

Cannabis workers face death and exploitation. California is stepping in after Times investigation
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Cannabis workers face death and exploitation. California is stepping in after Times investigation

WEAVERVILLE, Calif.  — Acknowledging growing concern over the mistreatment of cannabis workers, California regulators have quietly assembled a team to pursue labor exploitation in the state’s burgeoning weed industry. The new unit, housed within the Department of Cannabis Control, recently solicited help from law enforcement agencies statewide to investigate cannabis operators who coerce or threaten workers,…

Most Sex Trafficking In Wyoming Is Family, Experts Say
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Most Sex Trafficking In Wyoming Is Family, Experts Say

To his mother, Charlie Falkis was a commodity. His exploitation began when he was 8. His mother and former stepfather were drug addicts who belonged to a motorcycle gang in Connecticut. When they ended up doing the drugs they were supposed to sell and were on the hook to the gang, his mother offered up…

Amerigroup Georgia Helps Micah's Promise Expand Services for Victims of Sex Trafficking
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Amerigroup Georgia Helps Micah's Promise Expand Services for Victims of Sex Trafficking

COLUMBUS, Ga.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Micah’s Promise, a non-profit organization that educates the public about prevention of youth sex trafficking and intervention and support for victims, unveiled its newest facility for young women at an event Thursday. Amerigroup donated $500,000 to help complete the second phase of the organization’s mission, creating a transitional housing facility for young women,…

Oklahoma Senate approves measure addressing demand side of human trafficking
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Oklahoma Senate approves measure addressing demand side of human trafficking

  Oklahoma City – State Senator Darrell Weaver has won full Senate approval of a measure which, for the first time in Oklahoma, would address the demand side of human trafficking. Weaver, R-Moore, is the Senate principal author of House Bill 2054, which would strengthen the penalty for “Johns” by changing the crime of paying a person for sex…

First Lady reminds Kentuckians to be vigilant about human trafficking on ColumbiaMagazine.com
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First Lady reminds Kentuckians to be vigilant about human trafficking on ColumbiaMagazine.com

First Lady reminds Kentuckians to be vigilant about human trafficking From Crystal Staley/Scottie Ellis Frankfort, KY – First Lady Britainy Beshear joined human trafficking prevention advocates at the Team Kentucky Update on April 27, 2023 to raise awareness about human trafficking in the commonwealth and to remind Kentuckians how to report sex and labor trafficking….

Virtual reality helps prevent sex trafficking on the Suncoast
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Virtual reality helps prevent sex trafficking on the Suncoast

Wednesday, May 3rd 2023, 3:19 PM EDT By Sydney Roell Virtual reality helps prevent sex trafficking on the Suncoast SARASOTA – A virtual reality program puts users in the shoes of a young girl who gets sex trafficked. The anti-human trafficking organization, Selah Freedom, has turned to the program “Trapped: a VR Detective Story,” to teach…