HUMAN TRAFFICKING It's REAL & Happening In Missouri

Runaways and foreign  nationals are particularly vulnerable to becoming victims of human trafficking.

How Does It HAPPEN?

Traffickers will  (bruisesseek out those who are vulnerable and use their vulnerabilities to gain control of them.  They may offer a job to help with financial stress, promise a modeling job, or simply offer a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship filled with "love".  Victims are often coerced to sex u al acts "one time," to pay bills or pay back debt.  Once this happens, it becomes very difficult to say no.  Their relationship quickly changes to one of manipulation and control with violence often following.

What Are Some SIGNS?

Signs of trafficking are not always obvious, and may include:

*Abrupt changes in attire, behavior, or relationships;
*The presence of an older "boyfriend" or "girlfriend;"
*Unexplained school abscences;
*Travel with an older male/female who isn't a guardian;
*Sudden presence of expensive material possessions;
*Signs of psychological coercion, such as depression, anxiety, and/or an overly submissive attitude;
*Lack of control over his/her schedule, money, and/or items proving identification;
*Physical trauma (bruises, cuts, burns, scars);
*Poor health, as evidenced by sex u all y transmitted diseases, malnutrition, or serious dental problems;
*Coached/rehearsed responses to questions;
*Uncharacteristically promiscuous behavior and/or references to sex u al situations or terminology that are beyond age-specific norms;
*Tattoos or other branding marks;
*Substance abuse or addictions, selling drugs;
*Chronic running away; or,
*Homelessness.

If you notice any of these behavioral indicators, start paying closer attention to your loved one.

PROTECTING The Vulnerable
    Help your loved one develop and maintain self-esteem and healthy relationships.  Create open lines of communication and stay involved.

*Know with whom your child is spending time.
*Monitor your child's electronic activity to include Internet use, email, and social media accounts.  It's acceptable to have your child's passwords to monitor their activity.
*Create your own social media account and follow them.  Know what they are looking at, what social media outlets they use, and with whom they are communicating.  Knowing who their "friends" are, both in real life and virtually, is important.
*Be able to locate your child at all times.  There are apps available for this along with services through your wireless provider
*Routinely talk with your child about the dangers of social media.  Remind your child to not give out personal information or share pictures.
*Pay attention to your child.  Trust your instincts and ask questions if something seems different with them.
*Be aware of what's happening in your community/schools.