We monitor and fact-check media coverage of human trafficking and share the top cases from each week with you. Together we can change the system and public narrative. A broad view of what is happening across the country can be translated into action.
We want to take the time to remind parents: traffickers are always looking for their next victim. We have to protect our children while they’re on social media.
Georgia Columbus man charged with sex trafficking, pimping, and more
Missouri Opera Theatre St. Louis Administrator Accused Of Child Sex Trafficking
Nebraska Lincoln man found guilty of sex trafficking 2 teens. He used social media to recruit young women
Utah Utah man arrested for child sex trafficking via Twitter, Tumblr
At Collective Liberty, we know how strong the trauma bonding between a trafficker and their victims can be. Just because a trafficker is arrested, it doesn’t mean the exploitation has stopped. We have seen time and time again traffickers conducting business from jail or prison, or having someone fill their void while they are gone.
Michigan 23-year-old facing charges in Oakland Co. sex trafficking case with 9 known victims
North Carolina Second suspect wanted in Pender County human trafficking investigation now in custody
Pennsylvania 2nd conspirator in human trafficking ring will serve up to 141 years in prison after sentencing today
Utah Ogden sex trafficking suspect pleads guilty; cases against 2 others remain pending
Massage parlor trafficking is an insidious form of trafficking that has been incredibly organized and difficult to eradicate across the nation.
Minnesota Owner of illegal massage parlor that engaged in sex trafficking sentenced to over 33 years in prison
Sex buyers come from all walks of life. The purchasing of sex leads to the demand for trafficking victims, and needs to be met head on.
Texas Three soldiers arrested in child prostitution sting near Fort Hood
Texas Robinson man arrested in sheriff’s office prostitution sting
Christine Balarezo, program associate at Collective Liberty, is an 2020 NGEN Fellow. Christine is a human trafficking scholar with ten years of experience in the field and expertise in mixed-methods trafficking and policy research.
30 cases of coronavirus reported at Westlake Food 4 Less; workers demand better protections We want to highlight the impact COVID-19 is having on populations that are traditionally vulnerable to human trafficking. Many essential workers put in long, hard hours for not much money on the frontlines of a public health crisis, with companies who aren’t prioritizing the worker’s safety. This makes these individuals susceptible to the promises of traffickers who recognize and target their vulnerabilities. To push for increased labor protections is a strong and important step to fight trafficking.