Red Flags of Sexual Exploitation
Individual*:
- Works in the commercial sex industry
- Has a pimp or a manager
- Has evidence of frequent STDs, pregnancies, or high number of sexual partners at a young age
- Has bruises and evidence of physical trauma
- Possesses unexplained goods or luxury items
- Wears extreme attire inappropriate for the weather
- Avoids eye contact or has a flat affect
- Has few or no personal possessions
- Is not in control of his/her own money
- Has been “branded” (e.g. tattooed)
- Frequently runs away, is truant, or homeless
- Has an older boyfriend/girlfriend
- Shows evidence of substance abuse
- Appears fearful or paranoid
- Is supervised by a watchful male or group of males
*These are only a few indicators of sexual exploitation. Presence of the above indicators does not necessarily imply a trafficking situation. Red flags are intended to be used only as a guide in the context of all information presented.
Source: “Choose You” campaign material produced by the Westchester County DSS Safe Harbour Team and The Children’s Village Safe Harbour Program.