Human trafficking

What is human trafficking?

Human Trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt of persons by:

• Means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, abduction, fraud, or deception
• The abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability
• The giving or receiving of payments or benefits
• The person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation through various forms of sexual abuse

Human 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. In 2024 alone, the National Human Trafficking Hotline, operated by Polaris, received 32,309 signals — calls, texts, emails, and online reports — and identified 11,999 situations of human trafficking involving 21,865 victims.

Indicators of human trafficking

The majority of trafficking victims will not always self-identify as being trafficked, so it is important to be aware of the red flags associated with possible victimization. Some potential flags may be:

• Someone is controlling/supervising or looking over what they do
• They are never alone and/or always have someone translating or answering questions on their behalf
• Their communication is being restricted or monitored
• They do not have access to their personal documentation, identification or money
• They seem anxious, fearful or paranoid; they avoid eye contact
• They wear clothing that is typically worn during sexual activities
• They have unexplained bruises, cuts or other signs of physical abuse
• They use caution when answering questions about personal information
• They appear to be in a relationship with someone who is controlling
• They are afraid of receiving help from outside agencies or law enforcement
• They use terms such as "the life", "the strip", "mouthpiece", "quota" and may refer to their boyfriend as "daddy"
• They are hesitant or refuse to explain tattoos

All of these signs may or may not be indicators of someone who has or is being trafficked; however it may indicate that further assessment may be necessary to identify a potential human trafficking situation. If you are unsure, please contact either the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1‑888‑373‑7888 or Valley Crisis Center at (209) 725‑7900 or (209) 722‑4357 for more information and assistance.

Supporting victims of human trafficking

Having knowledge of the red flags and being vigilant of signs is one of the first steps in assisting someone who has been victimized. Listening to the victim is a key way to ensure they understand you are willing to help. Understand that a trafficking victim may not open up immediately; don't be judgmental or pressuring — this relieves the burden of having to speak out and often results in the victim being more willing to disclose information. It also demonstrates your concern and willingness to help the victim. Other key steps in supporting a victim are:

• Initiate a conversation in private
• Let go of any expectations you have
• Challenge and change any inaccurate attitudes and beliefs that you may have about trafficking victims
• Provide support and empowerment
• Believe the person
• Listen to their comments and concerns
• Build on their strengths
• Support their decisions
• Validate their feelings
• Avoid blaming the victim
• Take their fears seriously
• Offer help

Who to contact

If you believe someone is or has been victimized by Human Trafficking you can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1‑888‑373‑7888, text BeFree (233733) or visit polarisproject.org. This hotline can assist with more information to aid victims of Human Trafficking and will identify local resources available in your community. For Merced County you can contact Valley Crisis Center directly at (209) 725‑7900 or for 24 hour services you can call (209) 722‑4357 for more information and resources available.

If you believe someone is or has been a victim of Labor Trafficking you can contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1‑888‑373‑7888, text BeFree (233733) or visit polarisproject.org.

Additional resources

Child Protective Services: (209) 385‑3104 or 1‑800‑422‑4453

If you or someone you know is in an emergency situation, call 911 immediately.