Written by Judge Kim Dowling

I previously mentioned the red flags of human trafficking and how children are lured into this heinous atrocity. Let’s review the red flags and how you can identify potential victims.

Identifying these children requires knowing the “red flags” to spot when these victims come into contact with the Probation Department or Department of Child Services. These red flags include tattoos of images such as dollar signs, men’s names or the word “Daddy” on necks, lower backs or chests; or the letters MOB (“Money Over Bitches”). There may be a history of running away—including a history of homelessness. We look for histories of child sexual abuse, being recovered at a hotel, or being advertised on websites. We may also see youth carrying false identification, or having an adult in their presence who speaks for them or controls them in other ways. Youth in this situation often avoid eye contact, and appear submissive or fearful.

Trafficked children are often malnourished and dehydrated because they have typically not eaten or slept enough. When we recover children we think have been trafficked, we will always allow them to sleep and eat before any other services are provided.

In our work with Riley Hospital we have received photos of youth have been “chipped” by traffickers. While I haven’t seen any Indiana children who have been chipped, we know it happens elsewhere and our training includes this information. Traffickers use the devices you use to chip your pet to chip the children in their “stable.” A small bump in the web between the thumb and forefinger, under the ear, or underneath the arm is a glaring red flag.

Health indicators of trafficking include bruises, cuts, broken teeth, and other evidence of trauma, black eyes, and multiple scars. These may have been inflicted by the perpetrator, or the purchasers.

Mental health indicators therapists watch for include risk for suicide; memory loss; presenting as withdrawn; signs of aggression, anxiety, and mood disorders; panic disorders, substance-related disorders; difficulty concentrating; and extreme sadness and hopelessness.

I will share more in coming days about the work my committee has done to develop materials to share with professionals and trainings that we have and continue to conduct to help identify trafficking victims who need our help.