Stanislaus deputies and victim advocates look for these signs of possible sex trafficking

According to the Human Trafficking Hotline, California has far more reports of sex trafficking than any form of labor trafficking. Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Craig Osmonson said that may be due to underreporting of labor trafficking.

The Sheriff’s Office has a human trafficking task force called HEAT, funded by a federal grant in 2022 in partnership with HAVEN (Healthy Alternatives to Violent Environments). It focuses on both sex trafficking and labor trafficking.

Stanislaus County Supervisor Terry Withrow said he became interested in human trafficking after having a conversation with Sheriff Jeff Dirkse and wants to spread awareness.

“It’s disturbing to see what’s happening and that we’re [as a society] just kind of acting like it’s not happening,” Withrow said.

Osmonson said there are a few signs deputies watch out for when making a stop:

▪ Is the person in possession of someone else’s ID, phone or other important documents?

▪ Are they not allowed to speak for themselves, even when directly addressed?

▪ Are they dressing in clothing inappropriate for the weather conditions?

The Modesto-based nonprofit organization Without Permission also looks for indications of sex trafficking:

▪ Having an older boyfriend

▪ Tattoos or brands

▪ Unexplained injuries

▪ Sudden change in wardrobe

▪ Loss of interest in school or activities they used to enjoy

This story was originally published January 28, 2025 at 2:49 PM.