Report Possible Human Trafficking

“Human trafficking involves the obtaining of and coercive control of persons for sexual exploitation or exploitation of a labor force far below market pricing in violation of the laws of the Commonwealth, several international protocols, most nations’ laws, the U.S. Constitution, and several federal statutes.” – The Commonwealth of Virginia Commission on Human Trafficking Prevention and Survivor Support Final Report, January 9 2023.

If you observe the following indicators of potential human trafficking, please use the VSP tip line.

• Does the person appear disconnected from family, friends, community organizations, or houses of worship?
• Has a child stopped attending school?
• Has the person had a sudden or dramatic change in behavior?
• Is a juvenile engaged in commercial sex acts?
• Is the person disoriented or confused, or showing signs of mental or physical abuse?
• Does the person have bruises in various stages of healing?
• Is the person fearful, timid, or submissive?
• Does the person show signs of having been denied food, water, sleep, or medical care?
• Is the person often in the company of someone to whom he or she defers? Or someone who seems to be in control of the situation, e.g., where they go or who they talk to?
• Does the person appear to be coached on what to say?
• Is the person living in unsuitable conditions?
• Does the person lack personal possessions and appear not to have a stable living situation?
• Does the person have freedom of movement? Can the person freely leave where they live? Are there unreasonable security measures?