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.

Texas man convicted of sex trafficking, possessing child pornography – ICE
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Texas man convicted of sex trafficking, possessing child pornography – ICE

HOUSTON — A Houston man pleaded guilty to several sex trafficking crimes and possession of child pornography Feb. 27 following a Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Houston, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the Houston Police Department. A judge in the Southern District of Texas convicted Edgar Botello, 30,…

City Installs Traffic Diverters in the San Antonio to disrupt “cruising” – City of Oakland
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City Installs Traffic Diverters in the San Antonio to disrupt “cruising” – City of Oakland

Date Posted: February 28th, 2023 @ 8:17 AMLast Updated: February 28th, 2023 @ 8:25 AM On Saturday, February 25, the Oakland Department of Transportation (OakDOT) installed 35 water-filled plastic traffic diverters along E. 15th St, at the intersections of 16th, 18th, and 20th Avenues. Designed to disrupt cruising on this residential street that also has…

‘It can happen to anyone’: Yuba College to host human trafficking conference
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‘It can happen to anyone’: Yuba College to host human trafficking conference

Feb. 28—Yuba College will host a symposium on Friday to raise awareness and discuss the physical, legal and mental impacts of human trafficking. According to the Department of Homeland Security, human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to harbor or transfer people in order to obtain some type of labor or commercial…

The U.S. Is Choosing Child Labor Over More Immigration
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The U.S. Is Choosing Child Labor Over More Immigration

On storefronts throughout the U.S., “Help Wanted” signs have become about as ubiquitous as the stars and stripes. Today, there are roughly two job openings for every unemployed American. This historic labor shortage is propping up inflation as desperate employers raise wages to attract scarce workers, then boost prices to compensate for higher costs. Or…

Another guilty of trafficking women in cantina backroom – Department of Justice
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Another guilty of trafficking women in cantina backroom – Department of Justice

HOUSTON – A 30-year-old man who resided in Houston has pleaded guilty to several sex trafficking crimes and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Edgar Botello admitted to sex trafficking with force, fraud or coercion and conspiracy to do so as well as possession of child pornography. “Sex traffickers prey on…

Trafficked woman hopes sharing her story will help girls back home in Akwesasne – CBC
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Trafficked woman hopes sharing her story will help girls back home in Akwesasne – CBC

WARNING: This article contains graphic content and may affect those who have experienced​ ​​​sexual violence or know someone affected by it. Sierra, 34, is determined to speak out about how she survived what she calls a hellish ordeal. Raised by a mother who moved frequently between the United States and Akwesasne — a Mohawk community bordering Cornwall, Ont. — Sierra said she had…

Human trafficking survivors raise concerns about Central Florida safehouse, lack of state regulation
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Human trafficking survivors raise concerns about Central Florida safehouse, lack of state regulation

Editor’s note: who regulates the safehouses in your area? Just call them and ask. If you feel they need to be regulated, contact your representatives. Survivors of human trafficking are trusting only 9 Investigates with concerns about a local safehouse. They claim the programming they were promised at the Lifeboat Project, including therapy services, weren’t…

Proposed sex trafficking legislation could harm victims, advocates warn
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Proposed sex trafficking legislation could harm victims, advocates warn

A flurry of bills filed in the Florida legislature aimed at combatting sex trafficking and assisting victims are facing a backlash from advocates who say they were written hastily, without input and with language that could do more harm than good. With the 2023 session looming, state legislators have filed at least 16 bills related…

Wichita Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking
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Wichita Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking

WICHITA, KAN.– A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with sex trafficking. According to court documents, Markeece Anderson, 30, of Wichita is charged with two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. Anderson allegedly coerced a woman to engage in commercial sexual acts. The Wichita Police Department…