LEARN ABOUT
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Understanding Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a serious crime involving the exploitation of individuals for forced labor or commercial sexual purposes. It is a global human rights violation, and in the United States, it is categorized into two main forms: sex trafficking and labor trafficking. This page offers a comprehensive overview of these types of trafficking and their prevalence on the California Central Coast, along with valuable resources for further information.
Graphic courtesy of SB ACT
Transcend Documentary - Part I
This is one in a series of up to five short films which will include survivor stories and other dimensions of the fight against human trafficking. For more information on Filament Media, the series producer, visit their website or Vimeo page.
AMP Model of Human Trafficking
UNDERSTANDING HUMAN TRAFFICKING ON THE CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST
Santa Barbara County is vulnerable to human trafficking due to its unique characteristics:
Transit Corridor: The region is a natural transit corridor for trafficking between major cities.
Tourist Attraction: Santa Barbara County's tourism and transient population create opportunities for trafficking.
Migrant Labor: The presence of migrant labor adds to the risk.
Recognizing Signs of TraffickinG
Excess Cash
Hotel room keys
Multiple cell phones
Malnourishment
Fake IDs
Physical abuse
Inconsistent information
Lack of community knowledge
Tattoos or branding
Missing school
Expensive gifts
Avoiding eye contact
Withdrawal from activities
Remember, any minor in commercial sex is a trafficking victim; there is no such thing as a child prostitute. For more resources, visit the Abolish Movement and Polaris Project websites.
HOW TO REPORT SUSPECTED HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Do NOT attempt to intervene. The best way to maintain safety for all involved is to report suspicions.
If the individual appears to be in imminent danger:
Contact: Police (911)
Key Words: "Potential trafficking situation"; Describe immediate concern, who is involved, if you recognize the individual(s)
Response Times: Available 24/7
If the suspected survivor of trafficking is a minor:
Contact: Child Welfare Services (1-800-367-0166)
Key Words: Describe immediate concern, suspected age(s), who is involved, if you recognize the individual(s)
Response Times: Available 24/7
If you have a general suspicion of trafficking:
Contact: Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline (1-888-373-7888)
Text: BeFree (233733)
Online: www.humantraffickinghotline.org/en/report-trafficking
Key Words: Share the location (neighborhood, City, State), describe the immediate concern, who is involved, and if you recognize the individual(s)
Response Times: Available 24/7
