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Federal Definitions
Federal Definitions
Definition of Human Trafficking from the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA):
Sex Trafficking: the recruitment, harboring, transportation, providing, or obtaining of a person for a commercial sex act, in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion, OR in which the person induced to perform such an act has not yet attained 18 years of age.
Labor Trafficking: the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of subjection to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery.
Benefits trafficking** is exploiting an individual to appropriate their benefits or savings. **This form of financial exploitation is currently only recognized in the state of Georgia as a criminal form of human trafficking; however, it is widespread across the United States
Action-Means-Purpose (AMP) Model
The Action-Means-Purpose (AMP) Model for human trafficking is a conceptual framework used to better understand the dynamics and structure of human trafficking. This model breaks down the phenomenon into three distinct components: Action, Means, and Purpose. By examining human trafficking through these lenses, professionals can gain a clearer understanding of how trafficking operates and how it can be addressed at different stages. Here's an explanation of each component:
Action
Action
The Action refers to the specific act of trafficking itself. This includes the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of individuals through various means. These actions are typically undertaken with the intent to exploit the victim for different purposes. The focus here is on the processes involved in moving individuals into situations of exploitation—whether through coercion, fraud, force, or deceit.
Means
Means
The Means involve the methods or tactics used by traffickers to manipulate, control, or exploit their victims. This can include physical violence, psychological manipulation, threats, abuse of power, or taking advantage of a person's vulnerability. These means may also involve legal or illegal means such as fake documents, deceitful promises, or promises of a better life. The use of force or coercion is a critical element that separates human trafficking from other forms of migration or labor.
Purpose
Purpose
The Purpose refers to the end goal or ultimate intent of the traffickers. This is the exploitation the victim endures once trafficked. The purpose behind human trafficking can vary but typically includes forced labor, sexual exploitation, or involuntary servitude. It may also involve activities like organ trade, forced begging, or criminal exploitation. Understanding the purpose behind trafficking is essential in identifying the types of trafficking, such as sex trafficking or labor trafficking, and targeting interventions
The Action-Means-Purpose Model helps stakeholders, such as law enforcement, social services, NGOs, and policymakers, to pinpoint specific areas for intervention. By understanding the distinct elements of trafficking, professionals can:
Develop more targeted and effective prevention strategies
Strengthen victim identification and protection protocols
Improve law enforcement efforts to dismantle trafficking networks
Provide tailored support services to victims based on their unique experiences of trafficking
In essence, the AMP model simplifies a complex issue into three key components, enabling professionals to identify, address, and combat human trafficking more effectively across various contexts.
Indicators of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking often goes unnoticed, but several warning signs can indicate someone may be a victim. It is important to note that these are “red flags” that human trafficking could be occurring. It does not confirm human trafficking. If you have ANY REASON to believe human trafficking is happening, you should report it immediately. Additionally, this list is not exhaustive, and other elements of trafficking may be present that are not listed below.
Here are key indicators to be aware of:
Unexplained/Unhealed injuries: Frequent or unexplained bruises, scars, burns, or other signs of physical abuse. Also, untreated "healed" injuries, in particular to hands.
Poor hygiene: A victim may appear dirty, malnourished, or in need of medical care.
Lack of personal belongings: Victims often have very few or no personal possessions, including clothing and identification documents.
Lack of access to government documents/IDs: Individuals being trafficked often are restricted in having access to their own personal documents/visas/passports/IDs/etc.
Fearful or anxious behavior: Victims may appear nervous, paranoid, or fearful of law enforcement or others in authority.
Avoidance of eye contact: A victim may avoid direct interaction or eye contact with others, often due to fear or manipulation.
Submissiveness or controlled behavior: Victims may act in a way that shows they are under the control of another person, such as following orders without question.
Lack of freedom: Victims may not be allowed to leave their workplace, home, or travel freely. They may not have access to their own phone or transportation.
Restricted or monitored communication: Victims may be unable to speak freely in front of others, or they may have their phone calls and messages controlled or monitored by a trafficker.
Isolation: Victims may be cut off from their family, friends, and community. They may not have anyone they can call or communicate with independently.
Any child under 18 who is involved in commercial sex is legally a victim of trafficking, regardless of whether there is a third party involved.
Engagement in commercial sex acts: Individuals who are engaged in prostitution or pornography under coercion or force.
Frequent relocations: Individuals may be moved between different locations or forced to work in various areas, including different cities or states.
Untreated/Reoccurring Sexually Transmitted Infections: Individuals who have been repeatedly diagnosed with STIs or who have untreated STIs indicate a risk of sex trafficking.
Unusual work conditions: Victims may work excessively long hours for little or no pay, or in poor, unsafe conditions. They may also work in industries such as construction, agriculture, or domestic work, where trafficking can be prevalent.
Inability to leave or escape: Victims may seem to have limited or no control over their daily activities, and their movements may be restricted by their trafficker.
Living in substandard conditions: Trafficking victims may live in crowded, unhygienic, or hidden locations, such as basements, backrooms, or other secretive areas.
Unaccompanied minors: Victims may be young people without a parent or legal guardian present, especially if they appear disoriented or confused.
Possession of High Valued Items: When youth have high valued items or cash, that could be a sign of sex trafficking. An example would be if a youth has multiple phones, luxury purses, and/or jewelry.
Behavioral extremes: A minor showing signs of extreme fear, anger, or withdrawal, or displaying an unexpected level of maturity or knowledge beyond their years, may be a victim of trafficking.
It's important to understand that just because there are indicators of human trafficking, it does not automatically mean human trafficking is occurring.
However, it is not YOUR job to determine whether or not a situation is human trafficking. Hence, we strongly recommend that if you have ANY REASON TO BELIEVE that someone is being exploited or human trafficking is occurring, to immediately report it with as much detail as you can provide.
Who is at risk?
Who is at risk?
It's important to understand that everyone has vulnerabilities and anyone can be exploited... Especially through the "grooming process." However, there are a few groups of people who are particularly vulnerable to exploitation:
Formerly incarcerated individuals
"Undocumented" residents
Our LGBTQAI+ Community (Adults & Youth)
Youth who are system-involved (DSS, DJS, etc.)
Individuals, particularly youth, who are unhoused/homeless
Reporting Human Trafficking
Reporting Human Trafficking
If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, it's important to report your concerns. You can contact:
9-1-1 for immediate danger concerns!
The National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Text "HELP" to 233733
Live Chat @ www.humantraffickinghotlin.org
Remember, a timely intervention can make a life-changing difference. Always trust your instincts and take action if you see something suspicious.
Stay alert. Stay informed.
Want to learn more? Click the button to request training from the Baltimore City Human Trafficking Collaborative...
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