Human Trafficking in Las Vegas

Apr 22, 2022Blog

Las Vegas is a world-class destination for entertainment and nightlife. Unfortunately, this creates the opportunity for a criminal underworld to operate, and human trafficking occurs as a result.

In this guide, we’ll highlight everything you need to know about human trafficking, including what to do if you’re a victim. Let’s dive in!

What is Human Trafficking?

According to the United Nations, “Human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, and receipt of people for the purpose of profit through force, fraud, or deception.” Sex trafficking is the most widespread form of human trafficking.

Nevada was 9th in the nation for human trafficking cases reported in 2017, according to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center. Interestingly, an uptick is often seen around the dates of major conventions and sporting events.

Studies have found an increased demand for prostitution during competitions such as the Super Bowl, NHL playoffs, World Series, NBA, horse races, golf tournaments, NCAA playoffs, and college sports.

Global events, such as the FIFA World Cup and the summer and winter Olympics, also increase the demand for commercial sex and labor exploitation, particularly in the construction of sporting venues. The results of these constructions are dangerous working and living conditions, wage theft, and zero access to healthcare.

Other forms of trafficking include slavery, crimes against children, and the following:

Forced labor

Forced labor victims are recruited and trafficked through deception. Ultimately they work like slaves in mundane, labor-intensive jobs like mining, building, and construction, etc.

Forced criminal activity

In these cases, criminal networks profit from illegal activities by forcing their victims to engage in illegal activities to earn money. Such criminal lords incur no risks themselves.

Theft, drug trafficking, selling of counterfeit goods, and compulsory begging of alms are a few examples. Victims are often given targets, and failure to meet results in severe consequences.

Women’s trafficking for sexual exploitation

Women and children are usually easily enticed with fake promises of decent employment. Hence they leave their homes for a prospective future only to meet the unexpected.

These victims are given false traveling documents, then taken to the destination country via an organized gang. After, they are forced into sexual exploitation while held in inhumane conditions with constant terror.

Organ trafficking

Organ trafficking is fuelled by the demand for organ transplants.

In most places, transplant waiting lists are extremely long, pushing criminals to take advantage of patients’ desperation. Operations are carried out secretly without medical follow-up, putting victims’ lives in jeopardy.

Smuggling of people

This occurs when immigrants pay for the illegal crossing of borders, only to be forced to work in inhumane conditions by their smugglers.

How to Spot Human Trafficking

The truth is that it’s difficult. In fact, only a few victims of this crime are rescued after it occurs.

Prevention is the most effective measure! This can be done by raising awareness of human trafficking and educating society on how to respond if an incident occurs.

What To Do If You Suspect Human Trafficking? 

Whenever you suspect human trafficking, try assessing a person’s clothing condition and features like bruises that could indicate physical abuse. Keep an eye on how they carry themselves, especially when speaking to law enforcers.

To take action, contact your local police or discreetly inform the lead person in your location. Additionally, reach out to authorities and organizations. Dial 911 or  the National Human Trafficking Hotline – 888-373-7888

If You Are A Victim Of Human Trafficking, There Is Help!

If you’re a human trafficking victim, don’t worry. There are many organizations available to assist victims and witnesses of human trafficking.

Organizations such as Signs of HopeThe Shade TreeThe Cupcake Girls Safe HouseOlive Crest have resources to help local victims get back on their feet through financial support, housing, and job training.

They achieve this through offering victims love and support while assisting them in gaining the strength to leave. Regardless of your age or gender, these organizations provide life-changing services that promote dignity, self-reliance, and stability.

Do You Know Someone Who Is Under Arrest For Human Trafficking?

If a loved one is under arrest for human trafficking, it is presumed they are innocent until proved guilty in a court of law. Depending on the details and circumstances of the individual, the eligibility for bail may be granted by the court. Reach out to 8-ball bail bonds, who are here to help you.

8-ball bail bonds are committed to assisting those who have been arrested to resume their lives until they can seek justice in a court of law. We use our Bail Bonds in Las Vegas experience to deliver positive outcomes in less-than-ideal circumstances.  Our aim is to have a relationship based on mutual respect and voluntary exchange. Contact us today!

Key Takeaway

Change begins with you. You can do something about human trafficking and help reduce its impact on society. Awareness is key in responding to victims and preventing the spread of this crime. Do not turn a blind eye today. Be active in preventing human trafficking. Your voice is needed.