Blog, In the News

We Help Children Like Molly

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month

January 9, 2024

*The name of our client has been changed along with certain details of the case to protect our client’s privacy.

Molly’s home life was full of turmoil. While she was a happy child, Molly always felt like she had to tiptoe around her home, rarely feeling safe. Extended family grew concerned for Molly. She started receiving therapy and shortly into her treatment, she disclosed life-altering information. Her father was trafficking Molly to a family friend and Molly’s father was sexually abusing Molly’s friends.

Immediately, Molly was referred to Family & Children’s Place for a forensic interview. She was welcomed into the Child Advocacy Center, knowing she was in a safe environment to share her story, where she would be believed. Over the course of several hours, along with her child protective services caseworker and FCP forensic interviewer, Molly went into greater detail about her experience and what her friends went through at her home.

Because of the nature of human trafficking cases, federal agencies stepped in to investigate and prosecute this case. As a result of Molly’s bravery, her friends were able to receive help as well. Now, Molly lives happily with her mom and continues to work with her therapist as part of her healing journey but most importantly, Molly’s dad is not a part of her life anymore.

We’d like to think this tragedy doesn’t happen in our community, but unfortunately, it does. Which is why it’s important to recognize the signs and know how to respond.

Common signs of human trafficking include:

Malnourished appearance
Covered in bruises and scars
When questioned their answers seem rehearsed
They’re unable to speak without a specific individual present

If you suspect a child is a victim of human trafficking, please call the hotline at 1-888-373-7888. You never know when you could be saving a child’s life.