Turning Points Network works with survivors of sex trafficking here in Sullivan County.
What is Sex Trafficking?
Sex Trafficking is defined as exploitation of a minor to commit a commercial sex act with an adult, regardless of whether there’s any force, fraud, or coercion used. Sex trafficking and sex work are not synonymous. Sex trafficking involves the exploitation of a person who cannot leave or escape.
Possible Indicators of Sex Trafficking
Possible indicators of sex trafficking
This list is from the New Hampshire Human Trafficking Collaborative Taskforce. If you see these signs in your own life or in someone you know, consider reaching out for help. Victims may:
- Be under 18, and in sex acts for basic needs, money, or substances
- Have signs of physical abuse
- Have tattoos or other forms of branding, identifying the trafficker’s name, nickname, or a symbol
- Lack knowledge of their whereabouts and/or the city they are in
- Show signs of poor hygiene, malnourishment, and/or fatigue
- Be forced to meet daily quota of sexual acts or services
- Be fearful, anxious, depressed, submissive, tense, or nervous/paranoid
- Not have appropriate clothing for the weather or venue
- Show signs of substance abuse or addiction
The Numbers
Sex trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery and is widespread throughout the United States today. It is the second largest criminal industry in the world, and it is the fastest growing.
According to the latest National Human Trafficking Resource Center Statistics, for 2019:
Trafficking victims & survivors identified
Situations of
trafficking identified
Traffickers identified
Suspicious businesses identified
