Human Trafficking - The signs to look for and steps to take

Human trafficking is a global problem that affects millions of people each year. It is a form of modern-day slavery that involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for profit. Unfortunately, casinos are one of the many places where human trafficking occurs, with sex workers being particularly vulnerable. In this post, we will discuss the indicators of human trafficking, what to look for, and how casino security can be on the look out for it.

Human trafficking can be difficult to identify, but there are some common indicators that can help you recognize when it is happening. Here are some of the signs to look for:

1. Unusual behavior: Victims of human trafficking may exhibit unusual behavior, such as avoiding eye contact, appearing fearful or anxious, or exhibiting signs of physical abuse.

2. Limited freedom: Victims may have limited freedom of movement and may always be accompanied by someone who appears to be controlling them.

3. Working long hours: Victims may be forced to work long hours and may not be allowed to take breaks or leave the premises.

4. Debt bondage: Victims may be forced to work off a debt that they cannot pay off, which is used as a means of control.

5. Poor living conditions: Victims may be forced to live in poor conditions, such as overcrowded or unsanitary living spaces.

6. Lack of identification: Victims may not have identification documents or may have had them taken away.

These are just a few of the many signs that may indicate human trafficking is occurring. It's important to remember that not all victims will exhibit all of these signs, and some may not exhibit any signs at all.

Now that you know some of the indicators of human trafficking, let's discuss what to look for specifically in the casino environment. Casinos are popular destinations for human trafficking because they are often crowded, and sex workers are easily disguised as partygoers. Here are some of the things to keep an eye out for:

1. Groups of young women who appear to be accompanied by older men: This may be a sign of sex trafficking, especially if the women look uncomfortable or appear to be under the control of the men.

2. Individuals who are being closely watched: This could indicate that someone is being controlled and may not have the freedom to move around the casino on their own.

3. Individuals who appear to be soliciting: This could indicate that someone is working as a sex worker against their will.

4. Individuals who appear to be living in poor conditions: If you notice individuals who appear to be living in poor conditions, such as in a car or in a run-down motel, this could be a sign of human trafficking.

5. Individuals who appear to be underage: If you notice individuals who appear to be underage and are engaging in sexual activity or working as sex workers, this could be a sign of sex trafficking.

It's important to remember that these are just a few of the many things to look out for. If something seems suspicious, it's always better to report it to casino security or law enforcement.

In 2016, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) conducted a sting operation that resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals on charges related to human trafficking. The operation was carried out at a well know strip casino and involved the use of undercover officers who posed as potential customers. The individuals who were arrested were accused of forcing women into prostitution and using the profits to support their drug habits. The operation was a success, but it highlights the fact that human trafficking can and does occur in casinos.

So what can we do to help stop this?  Train your staff to be on the lookout for the above mentioned signs. If these signs are observed then contact your local law enforcement and advised them.  Continue to keep a look out until law enforcement arrives and allow them to take over. There are more great tips from the US. Department of State.  

If you have any more great tips or stories to share on how you or your team stopped an incident from happening, we would love to her about it.