Written by: Sabrina Stratford – September 6, 2024
In the quiet suburbs of Denver, a young woman named Emily lived a seemingly normal life. She was close with her family, enjoyed school, and had a tight-knit circle of friends. However, behind the facade of a perfect life, Emily was being manipulated and exploited by someone she loved and trusted—her much older boyfriend, Jake.
Jake initially presented himself as a protective and caring figure in Emily’s life. He would often take her out for meals, buy her gifts. Gradually, he began to introduce her to a network of people who seemed to be well-intentioned and friendly. Emily, naive and trusting, did not suspect that these interactions were part of a sex-trafficking business model. Over time, Jake groomed Emily into an income source. In addition to selling her to his circle of “friends,” he advertised and sold her on the internet.
Emily’s story is not unique. Studies show that a significant percentage of individuals trafficked into sex work are exploited by people they know and trust. This might include family members, romantic partners, or close friends. These traffickers often use manipulation, emotional abuse, and psychological control to trap their victims, making it challenging for them to seek help or even recognize the exploitation.
How Do Sex Traffickers Manipulate Their Victims?
Traffickers exploit the trust and affection they build with their victims. They often use emotional manipulation and the promise of safety or stability to lure their targets. By creating a dependency, they make it difficult for victims to leave or report the abuse, often saying, “If you love me, you’ll do this.”
This type of trafficking is insidious because it can happen right under our noses, with the abuser using the guise of love or protection to maintain control.
How Can We Protect Ourselves and Others?
1. Education and Awareness: Understanding the signs of trafficking and the tactics used by traffickers can help individuals recognize and avoid dangerous situations. Regularly educate yourself and those around you about the realities of trafficking, including how it can occur within trusted relationships.
2. Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where open and honest conversations are encouraged. Whether with family, friends, or partners, having a space where individuals feel safe discussing their concerns can prevent manipulation and abuse. Take the shame out of the game!
3. Monitor Online Interactions: In today’s digital age, traffickers often use online platforms to exploit victims. Be cautious about sharing personal information and interacting with individuals online. Ensure that young people understand the risks and know how to protect their digital footprint. *
4. Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with common indicators of trafficking, such as changes in behavior, secrecy, and sudden financial issues. If you suspect someone might be in danger, approach them with sensitivity and support.
Related Article: Texas High School Teacher and Son Charged with Recruiting Students for Prostitution
5. Support and Resources: Encourage those in potentially vulnerable situations to seek support from local organizations and hotlines dedicated to helping individuals escape trafficking. For example, the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) offers confidential support and resources.
6 Advocate for Prevention Programs: Support and advocate for school and community programs that focus on prevention, awareness, and education about trafficking. By creating a culture of vigilance and support, we can collectively work to reduce the incidence of trafficking.
Emily’s story reminds us that trafficking is often hidden in plain sight, involving individuals who are trusted and loved. By staying informed and proactive, we can help create safer communities and protect those at risk from exploitation.
Sex trafficking by someone known and loved is a heartbreaking reality that underscores the need for vigilance and education. By fostering open communication, staying informed, and supporting prevention efforts, we can work together to combat this pervasive issue and protect those who might be vulnerable.
If you or someone you know is a victim of sex trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text “BEFREE” to 233733. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Sabrina Stratford is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering proactive measures against human trafficking. She was the first domestic project manager to fight human trafficking with the non-profit, Love Justice International and then became property manager for transitional housing at Anchorage’s women’s emergency shelter, The Downtown Hope Center. Sabrina can be reached at sabrinastratford@gmail.com.
Note: The views expressed by guest bloggers and contributors are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to, Campus Safety.
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