Resources

Be Alert! Sex Trafficking may produce Behavioral Indicators

Parents, Grandparents, Relatives, Neighbors, Teachers Coaches: Please be aware

Behavior Indicators of a pimp or trafficker

• Jealous, controlling, or violent
• Buy expensive gifts, and own expensive things
• Vague about their profession and very open about financial matters Often older than young companions and their promises are too good to be true

Behavior Indicators of an individual being trafficked, or being groomed for trafficking

• KEY: Something has changed. Something is different
• Hiding or concealing something-maybe a phone, nervous-especially for one caller
• Unexplained absences from class or work; seems disconnected from family and friends
• Overly tired, withdrawn, depressed, distracted or, ‘checked out’
• Signs of emotional distress, rehearsed answers to questions
• The way they dress changes. New tattoos
• Sexualized behavior, drug and/or alcohol use
• Brags about making or having lots of money, older boyfriend, new friends
• Displays expensive clothes, accessories, or shoes. Maybe a new phone
• Signs of physical abuse such as bruises, cuts or burn marks
• If your son or daughter talk about how much a friend has changed: Be curios

Indicators of a Commercial Brothel; Home, Motel, Commercial Business, Retail Business, Airbnb

• The home seems a bit isolated. Never see children playing outside in front yard
• Seems like only women live there. Not a typical family situation
• Different cars constantly coming and going; typically, mostly men

You can make a difference: One Uber driver made one call and freed a teenager being trafficked

• Be aware that trafficking is happening in your city’s neighborhoods and schools
• If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children 1-800-843-5678. (1-800-THE-LOST). It’s secure, anonymous, and always open.
• If you witness a dangerous situation, call 911
• Never confront a trafficker/pimp directly: leave the area and make the call
• Don’t try a face-to-face conversation with a possible victim you don’t know. Make the call

Please be a Good Neighbor

The Story of the Good Samaritan clarifies who is our neighbor. We encourage you to be a Good Neighbor to those entangled in child prostitution or sex trafficking. You can make a difference. Please contact us with any questions, or for more information.

Scripture references to save children

Together, we will become a voice for the voiceless.

It would be better for him to have a millstone hung around his neck and to be thrown into the sea than to cause on of these little ones to stumble.
- Luke 17:32

We will speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed.
- Proverbs 31:8

Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible be delivered. For I will contend with him who contends with you, and I will save your children
- Isaiah 49:25