TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
In our next segment focusing on Human Trafficking, Sister Celine Goessel provides tips for helping recognize signs that could point to Human Trafficking and identifying its victims. Due to storm coverage, our main story on Sister Celine and her work to help eradicate Human Trafficking will be moved to next week’s edition.
In this edition, we share some of the facts about Human Trafficking, or modern slavery. We also share some of the warning signs Sister Celine urges all of us to look for. Human Trafficking is happening in all 72 Counties in Wisconsin, she said. And Wisconsin is one of the top five states in the nation for Human Trafficking, she added.
Recognizing the signs early could help rescue a victim of Human Trafficking, and Sex Trafficking in particular.
Know the red flags – Recognize possible signs of Human Trafficking, modern slavery
• Shows signs of abuse, restraint, or confinement
• Constantly late or absent from school
• Much older “boyfriend”
• Sudden increase of expensive “stuff”
• Not free to come & go as they please
• Ran away from home
• Has strange tattoos on body, especially the neck
• Does not have appropriate clothing for the weather
• Has suicidal behaviors
• Has other self-harming behaviors
• Manifests fear of social interaction
• Has signs of physical abuse or injuries
Report suspected human trafficking to law enforcement: 1.866.347.2423
or
Dial 911 for a local connection.
Up to 300,000 children in the U.S. are lured into the commercial sex trade every year …
at the average age of 13 years old.
Human Trafficking occurs in both urban and rural areas of Wisconsin.
Human Trafficking Happens Everywhere.
Get Help – Report a Tip – Learn More
HUMAN TRAFFICKING HOTLINE
1-888-3737-888
Or text “INFO” to: BeFree (233733)
• Did someone take away your ID or documents?
• Is someone forcing you to work for them to pay off a debt?
• Is someone forcing you to work or have sex against your will?
• Is someone threatening or hurting you or your family?
• Are you under 18 and getting paid for having sex?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
You have rights in the U.S. regardless of your immigration status.