Human trafficking is a type of modern-day slavery that exploits victims for purposes of forced labor or a commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion.
Human trafficking is often a hidden crime. Fear of police, fear of the trafficker, and language barriers combined with unfamiliarity of local geography and legal protections prevent victims from reaching out for help.
According to federal law, any minor under the age of 18 engaging in commercial sex is a victim of sex trafficking, regardless of the presence of force, fraud, or coercion.