Incidents of human trafficking have occurred in all 50 states, but it can be a difficult crime for local law enforcement to recognize. It is often misidentified during the initial law enforcement encounter as a possible prostitution problem, domestic argument, workplace altercation, etc.

Victims of human trafficking are usually scared when they encounter local law enforcement, because they know that their forced actions at the hands of their exploiter are illegal and they fear arrest.

First responders need to spend the time to look beneath the surface if indicators of human trafficking are present.

Indicators of human trafficking

  • Evidence the person is being controlled, captive or imprisoned
  • No English spoken and no passport or identification
  • Evidence the person is not free to leave the job at will
  • Signs of physical abuse
  • No address or family contact
  • Another person speaks for the person
  • Indication that juvenile is a runaway
  • Noticeable age difference between older male and younger woman

Questions when suspecting human trafficking

  • What type of work do you do?
  • Are you being paid?
  • Are you free to leave your job?
  • Are you free to go and come as pleased?
  • Have you or your family been threatened if you refuse to work?
  • Where and what are your living conditions?
  • Are there locks on the doors/windows so you will not leave?
  • Do you have to ask permission to eat/sleep/use the bathroom?

Human trafficking awareness training

The Polaris Project has reported that 29 states now have or require some sort of law enforcement human trafficking awareness and recognition training. Through training, local law enforcement officers learn the skills necessary to recognize the indicators of human trafficking.

The curriculum for training can vary depending on the agency's primary mission, geographic jurisdiction and the diversity of the population within the jurisdictions. General recommendation and topics for local law enforcement human trafficking awareness training:

  • Defining human trafficking
  • Learn federal and state laws on human trafficking
  • Identify populations vulnerable to human trafficking
  • Recognize indicators of human trafficking occurring
  • Learn local enforcement strategies
  • Report suspected human trafficking activities
  • Provide resources

Local law enforcement agencies that need training materials on human trafficking awareness can contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Blue Campaign.