Understanding Child Trafficking
Sex Trafficking
Inducing a minor to perform commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. Any minor engaged in commercial sex is a trafficking victim.
Labor Trafficking
Using force, fraud, or coercion to recruit or maintain a minor in labor or services, including domestic servitude.
Signs & Indicators
Recognizing the warning signs is the first step toward protecting a child. Watch for these indicators:
- Signs of physical abuse or malnourishment
- Has unexplained absences from school
- Possesses expensive items without a plausible explanation
- Has an older 'boyfriend' or 'girlfriend'
- Shows signs of depression, anxiety, or fear
- Has a 'manager' or someone who seems to control them
- References traveling to other cities or states
What Should You Do?
1
Recognize the Signs
Trust your instincts. If something doesn't seem right, it probably isn't.
2
Call the Hotline
Report your concerns to the Colorado Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS.
3
Provide Information
Share what you've observed. You don't need proof — trained professionals will investigate.
If Not You, Then Who?
Don't wait. Your call could make the difference in a child's life.
