Human Trafficking“I thought he loved me and then he sold me.” -Romeo Pimp SurvivorHuman trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal activity in the world. The term refers to a bevy of acts that includes both forced labor and sexual exploitation. Many people think of the movie “Taken” when they think of young girls being sex trafficked. More than 100,000 children a year are forced into sex trade, but this isn’t because of a massive kidnapping organization. Instead, it is because pimps now have easy access to children through the internet and cell phones. One of the ways traffickers target girls and young women is through romantic relationships, both online and in person. These types of traffickers are often referred to as Romeo Pimps.The Carlson Law Firm May 4, 2020What is a Romeo Pimp? Gaining a victim’s trust can occur online or in person. In both online and in person scenarios, the pimp will promise a better future. If the victim and the pimp have never met the pimp will use these promises to lure his victims to his town.Professionals undergo training to respond to human trafficking victims with shelter and security. Additionally, the can help victims get access to medical treatment, food, clothing, legal services, counseling, and other aid. If you are a human sex trafficking victim, or if you know of a situation of human trafficking, we can help you get assistance and navigate the legal system.Educate YourselfWhat to do if he or she is approached by a stranger.What to do if adults in authority positions start giving your child special attention or gifts.That secrets between adults and children are inappropriate.In general, we think of bars and dark alleys when we think of sex traffickers. However, the scary truth is in many cases they are in wholesome places like neighborhood or community parks, schools, malls and movie theaters looking for vulnerable young girls. Determining if your child is in a safe environment and being supervised by a trusted adult is necessary for their safety. If no adult is present, always encourage your child to stick with her group friends and never go off alone with anyone.Recruiters can be students at your child’s school or parents of other students looking to make some money. They’ll introduce your child to a pimp and get paid for bringing in a new girl. It is best that you know your child’s friends, as well as their families.Perhaps the most telling sign of a Romeo Pimp is an older guy seeking the affections of your child. Pimps don’t usually kidnap, they manipulate. The most prevalent form of trafficking is a man in his late teens or 20s selecting a teenage girl to make her fall in love. These men are constantly thinking of ways to trick young girls into doing what they want them to do. You should always be wary of whom your child is dating and thoroughly investigate them. Even if your child is over 18, he or she is not too old or mature to escape sex trafficking.Yes, it sounds cliche, but these pimps are often able to brainwash their victims because of self-esteem issues, broken homes or generally troubled childhoods. While all genders are affected by sex trafficking, low self-esteem particularly affects adolescent and teenage girls. This is exactly why Romeo Pimps prey on this age group. Because of this, it is important that you reaffirm your child’s self-worth every chance you get. The best way to combat low self-esteem is to give your child a shield of love. Reminding your child of her worth will do wonders to protect her from attempts to lure her into the trafficking web. Additionally, reminding your child that she is loved and that your home is a safe place will protect her from the threats of a pimp. Girls who are trafficked are often living in constant fear.Get Involved! 
