Child Sex Trafficking

Child sex trafficking is a form of child abuse that occurs when a child under 18 is advertised, solicited or exploited through a commercial sex act. A commercial sex act is any sex act where something of value – such as money, food, drugs or a place to stay – is given to or received by any person for sexual activity. Traffickers target youth who lack strong support networks, have experienced child abuse or violence in the past, are experiencing homelessness, or are marginalized by society.

Examples of child sex trafficking are pimp controlled trafficking, gang-controlled trafficking, familial trafficking, and buyer-perpetrated trafficking.

Sex Trafficking Red Flags Specific to Minors

• Abrupt and drastic changes in attire, behavior, or relationships
• The presence of an older “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”
• Excessive unexplained school absences
• Travel with an older male or female who is not a guardian
• Sudden presence of expensive material possessions
• Chronic running away
• Homelessness
• Signs of psychological coercion, such as depression, anxiety, and/or an overly submissive attitude
• Lack of control over his/her schedule, money, and/or proof of identification
• Signs of physical trauma (like bruises, cuts, burns, or scars)
• Tattoos or other branding marks
• Selling drugs
• Coached/rehearsed responses to questions