The modern-day form of slavery that is human trafficking occurs in every state, Indiana is no different. Victims of human trafficking are forced to work against their will, often in dangerous and exploitative conditions. They may be subjected to physical and sexual abuse, and they may be denied food, water, and medical care.
Human trafficking is a growing problem in Indiana. In 2021, the National Human Trafficking Hotline identified 123 cases of human trafficking in the state. The majority of victims were female, and the most common form of trafficking was sex trafficking.
There are a number of factors that contribute to human trafficking in Indiana. The state is located on major interstate highways, which makes it a transportation hub for traffickers. Indiana is also a low-cost state with a large number of vulnerable populations, such as runaway and homeless youth, immigrants, and people with disabilities.
Who Are the Victims of Human Trafficking?
The victims of human trafficking can be anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or nationality. However, there are some populations that are at increased risk for trafficking, including:
- Runaway and homeless youth: Runaway and homeless youth are often vulnerable to trafficking because they are looking for a place to stay and a way to make money. Traffickers may prey on these youth by offering them food, shelter, or a job, and then they may use force, fraud, or coercion to keep them in bondage.
- Immigrants: Immigrants may be vulnerable to trafficking because they may not be familiar with the law or the language, and they may be afraid to report trafficking for fear of deportation.
- People with disabilities: People with disabilities may be vulnerable to trafficking because they may be dependent on others for care, and they may be less likely to be believed if they report trafficking.
What Are the Signs of Human Trafficking?
There are a number of signs that someone may be a victim of human trafficking. These signs include:
- They are afraid to leave their trafficker.
- They have no identification or access to money.
- They have been physically or sexually abused.
- They are forced to work long hours in dangerous or unhealthy conditions.
- They are not allowed to keep their earnings.
- They are not allowed to contact family or friends.
If you see someone who is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to report it to the authorities. You can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or the Indiana Protection for Abused and Trafficked Humans (IPATH) Hotline at 1-800-800-5556.
What Can Be Done to Combat Human Trafficking?
There are a number of things that can be done to combat human trafficking. These include:
- Raising awareness: One of the most important things that can be done to combat human trafficking is to raise awareness of the issue. People need to know what human trafficking is, who the victims are, and what the signs are.
- Reporting suspected cases: If you suspect that someone is being trafficked, it is important to report it to the authorities. You can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or the Indiana Protection for Abused and Trafficked Humans (IPATH) Hotline at 1-800-800-5556.
- Providing support to victims: Victims of human trafficking often need support to recover from their experiences. There are a number of organizations that provide support to victims of human trafficking, including the National Human Trafficking Hotline and the IPATH.
- Holding traffickers accountable: Traffickers must be held accountable for their crimes. The government must work to prosecute traffickers and to ensure that they receive stiff sentences.
These statistics underscore the ongoing issue of human trafficking in Indiana, and highlight the importance of continued efforts to identify and assist victims.