Human Trafficking has been called "modern slavery" and is the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world. Human Trafficking is different than Human Smuggling, as Trafficking occurs within American borders with victims who are American citizens or legal immigrants.
Human Trafficking can include both adults and children forced an exploited into performing labor or sex acts without freedom to leave the situation. In Kansas, I-70 and I-35 are areas of high Trafficking activity. In 2018, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation received 48 reports of Human Trafficking in Kansas. Trafficking is a felony crime in Kansas, both the buyers and sellers are held accountable for this crime, never the victim.
In a social media post the Riley County Police Department said the community can keep a close eye for indicators of Human Trafficking. Often the reality of the Trafficking activity will not match the outward façade.
for Sex Trafficking
- Controlling behavior from one member of a couple- Usage of multiple cell phones- Submissive, fearful demeanor- Avoiding normal eye contact
for Labor Trafficking
- Working excessively long hours with no breaks- Not being able to take sick or vacation time- Excessive numbers of individuals living in one space- Individuals living with employerIt is important for your safety not to confront a possible Trafficking situation yourself. Call all RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or 911 in the case of an emergency for officer assistance.