Know the signs of human trafficking

After my blog about human trafficking two weeks ago, people thanked me for enlightening them that human trafficking happens in our hometown of Dothan, Ala. One person said he was clueless and wouldn't know how to identify a victim or know what to do if he did.

So, this blog is to help answer those questions. The more we all know, the more we can all do to help end this injustice.

Human Trafficking is modern day slavery, and it is the use of force, fraud or coercion to compel another person to provide labor or commercial sex against their will.

Know the signs of human trafficking:

• Have injuries or signs of physical abuse
• Denied food, water, sleep, medical care, and freedom of movement
• Drug addiction
• Current runaway or signs of homelessness
• Does not have identification   
• Presence of older boy/girlfriend
• Inexplicable appearance of expensive gifts, clothing, or other costly items
• Withdrawal or lack of interest in previous activities
• Pimps and traffickers will often "brand" their girls and boys with tattoos.
• Seems disoriented and not know where he/ she is
• Fearful of authority, especially law enforcement
• Avoids eye contact

This list is not all inclusive, but these are some of the key signs of spotting human trafficking victims.

How to Report Trafficking:

If you see a victim, or even suspect you see a victim, call 9-1-1. The Dothan Police Department has told us they would rather for people to call them and it turns out to be a false alarm than for people to do nothing and someone remains a victim of human trafficking.

You can also call the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-3737-888.

Don't ignore this crime. Learn more about it and help. One person can save someone's life by simply making a phone call. If it was your daughter or son who was a victim of human trafficking, you would want someone to call and help them.

Click here to visit the Human Trafficking Awareness page on Love In Action's website to learn more.