The definition of human trafficking is the use of force, threat of force, fraud or coercion to recruit, harbor, transport, provide or obtain any person for labor or commercial sex or to cause a person under 18 to engage in a commercial sex act. (https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/human-trafficking )
The 62 cases of human trafficking last year bring the number of reported cases in the District to 431 since 2007. In Maryland, 135 cases of trafficking were reported last year. That number swells to 175 new cases uncovered in Virginia. (http://dcist.com/2015/02/2014_human_trafficking_statistics_r.php )
The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) is arguably the most important anti-trafficking law ever passed. The TVPA, and its reauthorizations in 2003, 2005, and 2008 define a human trafficking victim as a person induced to perform labor or a commercial sex act through force, fraud, or coercion. Any person under age 18 who performs a commercial sex act is considered a victim of human trafficking, regardless of whether force, fraud, or coercion was present. (http://fightslaverynow.org/why-fight-there-are-27-million-reasons/the-law-and-trafficking/trafficking-victims-protection-act/trafficking-victims-protection-act/ )
This is a horrendous crime that needs to be stopped. Ways to prevent youth from falling prey to it are:
Always be aware of your surroundings.
Minors should be with someone, especially an adult, at night.
Share information and be make sure your loved ones understand the dangers of what could happen. Education is key.
Keep your phone on, if possible, so you can be located.
Always be looking for local community service people in case you need help.
If you are in a situation you think could possibly be a kidnapping, yell “fire!”
These key tools can help in any kind of deadly situation. Arming yourself with knowledge and awareness is what can possibly help prevent any kind of dangerous situation.
For more information, visit: http://www.liveyourdream.org/our-dream/ending-violence-against-women/sex-trafficking.html?gclid=CNiH24LamMsCFdBZhgodVsAJ5Q