Human trafficking is a growing concern

NORTH MISSISSIPPI, Miss. (WCBI) – January is human trafficking awareness month, and the safety of children and young adults is a growing concern.

The human trafficking hotline reports that in 2017, 8,524 cases were reported across the U.S. alone.

When some people think of human trafficking, they think of other countries and impoverished places.

But in reality, it’s happening in our own backyard.

From big cities to small towns, the threat of human trafficking is on the rise, and local law enforcement is on the lookout.

“Right now it is a real big business in the United States. It’s hard to believe that in a small place but we actually have it happening in Mississippi the estimate from 100,000 to 300,000 people a year are picked up and forced into either the sex trade or people put them into work at a young age. They prey on young people because they’re easily persuaded,” said Chickasaw County Sheriff James Meyers.

Teens and young adults are the most common victims in human trafficking cases.

And many of those targeted are runaways.

“Once they run away, and they get on the streets a child with maturity level they very easily can be drawn into something, and once they get there they become trapped,” said Clay County Sheriff Eddie Scott.

“Anytime we get an opportunity to speak at the schools around here we try to impress upon them to look, things get bad at home or if they get bad at school, running away is not the answer because these children they don’t see the bad and people,” said Sheriff Meyers.

With the rise of social media, traffickers have easier access to potential victims, but there are some things parents can do to keep their kids from falling into the trap.

“You know the criminal. He uses every avenue he can to persuade his victims. Facebook and multimedia is easy access, so many children just about have a cell phone. They befriend somebody that they think is maybe 15 or 16 years old when it may be someone targeting them to get them away from home,” said Sheriff Meyers.

“Monitor what your kids are doing at all times. That is one of the biggest ways we can protect our kids, is by knowing what they’re doing. They’re going to say well you’re getting into my business you’re getting into my life all the time, but as parents, it’s what we’re supposed to do. We’re supposed to watch out for our kids and do everything we can to make sure that they remain safe,” said Sheriff Scott.

Parents aren’t the only ones who need to be on guard.

Clay County Sheriff Eddie Scott says it’s important for his team to be trained to spot the signs of trafficking.

They are always on the lookout from traffic stops to everyday calls.

“As long as there’s a demand for it they’re going to keep coming. It’s upon us to do everything in our power to try to slow it down,” said Sheriff Scott.

If you suspect someone is a victim or involved in human trafficking, you can call the Human Trafficking Hotline at 866-347-2423.