Know the Signs of Human Trafficking

Grooming is a stage in the recruitment process. A Pimp / Trafficker can be a man or a woman. Young or old. Most pimps use manipulation to lure in potential victims. They may even use another person to do this manipulation before you're even introduced to the pimp/ trafficker. The pimp will appear as a friend or boyfriend /girlfriend. They might be the only person who really listens to you and that's only because they are listening to know your vulnerabilities. 

The pimp will find out your dreams and ambitions or their frustrations and pains. Then they will offer a way out of the pain in your life, or a way to reach your dreams. 

The Pimp/ Trafficker will use many tactics to lure his victims. 

Here are some warning signs to watch out for:  

- Taking you shopping / Giving you gifts

- Wine and dining you 

- Providing you with things you want/need

- taking you on trips

- photoshoot for "modeling casting calls"

- giving you small amounts drugs to eventually get you hooked

- suggest a way to make fast money

- use other girls to invite you out to hang or clubbing

-  Ask you to invite your friends to come hang out with you and him. 

And for teen boys, some traffickers use video games  to lure them in. So please be aware if you are asked to send a photo of yourself online. 

Victims of Human Trafficking are deprived of the most basic human right; The right to FREEDOM.

Trafficking victims are often forced into sex work by gorilla pimps or coerced by a romeo pimp and are now feeling stuck in a life of dehumanizing work. It is a crime that affects people from all over the world, including the United States

If you or someone you know is being trafficked or may be being groomed by a trafficker, 

Contact the Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888

 Human trafficking is modern day slavery & involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. 

Adults & minors of sex trafficking according to the law:

• Adults are deemed victims of criminal sex trafficking when they are exploited into a commercial sex act through force, fraud or coercion.
• Minors (under age 18) are deemed victims of criminal sex trafficking when they are persuaded into a commercial sex act, regardless of whether force, fraud or coercion are used.

Human Trafficking victims and survivors of trafficking come from all walks of life. People harmed by human trafficking are diverse. Anyone can be trafficked. 

Traffickers prey upon people with the following characteristics or experiences by offering to meet some kind of physical or emotional need, thereby gaining control over that person.

Common circumstances in Vulnerable populations

• Minors
• Runaway youth
• Low self esteem, depression
• History of sexual abuse, physical abuse or other trauma
• Parent or guardian has substance abuse issues
• College students, Junior/ high school students