We often hear of campus sexual assaults, hazing, racial disparities, and we overlook or are programmed to ignore certain signs of an individual in distress.We know what to look for for domestic abuse and bullying, and when a classmates being human trafficked.
2021 according to the Oregon National Trafficking Hotline, 485 signals were received, of which 177 were from victims or survivors of human trafficking. Females are found to be more likely than males engaged in human trafficking.
Human trafficking is an underreported crime, because you may have somebody that’s being prostituted at the direction of a pimp. Most people don’t want to interfere with that relationship through fear of violence.”
Sex Trafficking is a psychological exploitation of a person’s vulnerabilities.The human trafficker will groom the victim to get their trust.They will provide gifts and give the impression of love and relationship. At the point the trust is gained, they will be coerced into performing sexual acts for money to give the trafficker.
Human trafficking predators also approach victims via the internet and social media outlets, where more people are more likely to interact with strangers. Additionally, online outlets make it easier to recruit potential victims and attract clients. Here are some tips to protect yourself on the internet. Here are a few strategies to protect yourself online: Set strict privacy settings, Beware of strange friend requests, Don’t overshare, Flag it, block it and don’t share it! Get help or raise the alarm. Many countries have free, confidential resources and helplines for those who have been or are at risk of being trafficked. Make sure to know your National Human Trafficking Hotline. 888-373-7888
Have there been cases of human trafficking in Eugene? “We have had some cases,” says Melinda McLaughlin, EPD (Eugene Police Department) public relations officer, “I have not heard of cases escalating.”
If you see the following red flags of trafficking, please call Eugene Police: (541) 682-5111
A child or adult who:
- Has a manager or ‘pimp’.
- Can’t move freely and appears to be controlled (although some are allowed to go shopping and visit friends, they are closely watched and have restrictions).
- If a child, and they are dressed in an inappropriate way for their age to attract customers.
- Seems fearful, timid and avoid eye contact.
- Is fearful of police contact.
- Seems to be in debt to someone.
- Has signs of abuse (physical and mental), malnourishment, anxiety, bruising, scars, memory issues, lack of medical care.
- Does not appear to have their own possessions.
- Is moved from city to city frequently.
- Has tattoos or brands that signify ownership.
For more information and free training on how to spot and assist a person that is being human trafficked. ECASEY (Eugene Coalition Against Exploitation of Youth) is hosting free online training to raise awareness and help those being human trafficked. ECASEY is the Education & Awareness Committee of Lane County focusing on reducing child sex trafficking by partnering with local school districts to provide community outreach and promote public awareness of technology-facilitated exploitation of children.
