January marks Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention month.
Queens County is unfortunately a prime geographic location for traffickers to target and exploit those most at risk. Some of the most vulnerable include homeless and runaway youth, children in group homes or foster care, undocumented workers , LGBTQ+ community members, those suffering from substance abuse, and those facing gender, racial, social or economic inequality.
Labor traffickers exploit workers with threats of injury or deportation, using forced labor, domestic work or servitude for little or no wages.
Sex traffickers often use psychological or physical coercion, violence, threats, forced drug use or fear to compel adults and children to engage in acts of prostitution.
Sex trafficking red flags:
- Older intimate partner
- Chronic runaway
- Unable to make decision without approval
- Not in possession of own ID
- Staying in hotels or in possession of hotel keys
Labor trafficking red flags:
- ID documents held by employer or third party
- Employer holding onto salary for “safekeeping”
- Excessively long or unusual work hours
- Fearful of authorities
- Evidence of physical abuse or malnourishment
The QDA Human Trafficking Bureau, which I formed during the first six months of my administration, aggressively investigates and prosecutes sex and labor trafficking crimes. The Bureau collaborates with city, state agencies and non-governmental organizations to facilitate meaningful support services for trafficking survivors, regardless of their immigration status.
If you or anyone you know may be a victim of labor trafficking or commercial exploitation - or to be connected to social, legal or immigration services - contact the Human Trafficking Bureau at 718-286-6548 or email HumanTrafficking@queensda.org.
