What is child sex trafficking?
Child sex trafficking occurs when someone under 18 years old is bought or sold for sexual purposes. Children are also victims of sex trafficking when they engage in sex in return for basic needs such as food, shelter, safety, or pocket money to purchase consumer goods. A child cannot consent to be sold for sex. In all instances abusers are exploiting the vulnerabilities of the child.
Where does it happen?
Trafficking takes place globally and within the United States. It can happen in cities, suburbs, and rural areas and affects children from all walks of life. In the United States, a person does not need to cross international or even state borders to be considered a victim of trafficking. Human trafficking has been reported in all 50 states.