Human Trafficking

Definition

The misuse of other people for the exchange of something of value. There are two types: labor trafficking and sex trafficking.

  • Labor traffickers make false promises, force, threaten, and coerce individuals to work for little or no pay. This can happen in hotels, farms, restaurants, in child care, and at other places of work.

  • Sex traffickers exploit others to engage in a sexual act through force and manipulation in exchange for money or other resources. Sex trafficking of a minor is a form of child abuse, even if a minor says they consent.

Signs and Indicators

  • Possession of money, clothing, shoes, electronics, or other items of value that the youth cannot afford or that is out of the ordinary for them to have

  • Sexually explicit pictures of themselves online

  • Someone calling, texting, or tracking them frequently

  • Has an older significant other or has acquaintances that the young person is unwilling to provide information about

  • Has a history of running away or “leaving town” without providing information as to where they are going

  • Going to hotels/motels for parties

  • Has unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or frequent sexually transmitted infections

  • Has new tattoos that are not explained or are unusual

  • Is affiliated with a gang

  • Has friends or acquaintances involved in the commercial sex industry (i.e., exotic dancing, sex work, pornography)

How To Get Help

Pathfinders Advocacy, Shelter, and Drop-In Center

    • New Paths advocacy: 414-587-2553 (call/text)

    • General information: 414-964-2565 (counseling, drop-in center, and general assistance)

    • Drop-in center for youths ages 11–25; located at 4200 N. Holton Street, Milwaukee

    • 24/7 crisis hotline and youth shelter: 414-271-1560; located at 1614 E. Kane Place, Milwaukee

Walker’s Point Crisis Hotline and Shelter

  • 24/7 hotline: 414-647-8200

  • Address: 732 S. 21st Street, Milwaukee

Sojourner Crisis Hotline and Shelter for Adults (and Their Children):

  • 414-933-2722 (access to translation line as needed)

UMOS Latina Resource Center Advocacy and Resources

  • 24-hour hotline: 414-389-6510 (Spanish/English)

Aurora Healing and Advocacy Services

  • 27/7 crisis hotline for survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault (including trafficking): 414-219-5555

CRAY—Collaborative Rapid Advocacy for Youth

  • 414-800-CRAY (2729): Urgent medical and legal accompaniment and advocacy for youths ages 11–25 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday