Exploitation and Criminal Activities
Sex trafficking is a serious crime impacting many minors and young women in the U.S., with an estimated 100,000 – 150,000 minors involved in the sex trade. Many of these victims enter the trade as runaways, and online exploitation is increasing, with traffickers using social media to advertise minors for escort services.
Case Study (2019-2020): NCMEC analysts identified escort ads for two missing teens (13 and 15 years old), leading to the rescue of 8 missing children from a trafficking ring spanning California and Nevada.
Additionally, runaways are at risk for forced labor trafficking, including domestic servitude, street labor, and exploitation in illegal sweatshops or drug trade operations. Gangs and organized crime groups also force runaways into criminal activities, including theft and fraud.
Sex Trafficking & Exploitation
- 100,000 – 150,000 minors involved in sex trafficking.
- Runaways are highly vulnerable to being trafficked.
- Online exploitation is on the rise, with traffickers advertising minors on websites and social media.
Labor Trafficking & Gang Involvement
Runaways and homeless youth are often exploited for non-sexual labor such as domestic servitude, street labor, and illegal activities like theft and drug dealing. Some gangs force teenagers into prostitution as part of initiation rites or operations.
- Labor trafficking includes forced work in sweatshops and door-to-door sales.
- Gang involvement forces runaways into illegal activities, such as drug dealing and fraud.
Key Insights
- Minors involved in commercial sex are legally victims of trafficking, regardless of consent.
- Runaways are prime targets for both sex and labor trafficking.
- Gangs are increasingly using minors for criminal activity and prostitution.