This resource guide contains the following tools developed to provide background information and guidance for law enforcement officers to identify and communicate with victims of human trafficking.

If you think you have come in contact with a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 1.888.373.7888. This hotline will help you determine if you have encountered victims of human trafficking, will identify local resources available in your community to help victims, and will help you coordinate with local social service organizations to help protect and serve victims so they can begin the process of restoring their lives.

The First Thing You Should Know: Federal law defines trafficking in persons as “sex trafficking in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion, or in which the person induced to perform such act has not attained 18 years of age.” This means that any person you detain for prostitution who is 17 years old or younger is a victim of Human Trafficking under US Federal Law.

Tips for Identifying the Crime of Human Trafficking
This tool provides law enforcement officers things to consider when encountering a situation that may involve human trafficking. Being aware of these items will help promote a cooperative relationship, helping law enforcement gain the assistance of victims in the investigation and prosecution of traffickers.

Screening Questions to Assess Whether a Person Is a Trafficking Victim
This tool contains key questions law enforcement officers should consider asking potential victims of human trafficking in order to confirm whether or not they are actually victims. The questions will also help to secure information that can later be used as testimonial evidence.

Understanding the Mindset of a Human Trafficking Victim
This tool provides law enforcement officers with insight into the mindset of a victim of human trafficking. It offers points to consider when dealing with victims and sheds light on the crime of trafficking from the perspective of the victim, including how the victim may feel and what barriers law enforcement officers may face when encountering a victim.

Communicating with Victims of Human Trafficking
Most victims are afraid and initially hesitant to cooperate, often fearing for their lives. This document provides law enforcement with strategic word choice and usage geared to establish trust between the officer and the victim.

Tips for Identifying and Interacting with Victims of Trafficking
Successful investigations and prosecutions of crimes of human trafficking require law enforcement officials to approach these crimes differently from the ways they might approach other criminal investigations. This tool includes tips for law enforcement officers when encountering possible victims who may need to be rescued and protected.

PowerPoint Presentation for Law Enforcement
This PowerPoint presentation can be used as an information tool or training resource for law enforcement officers to gain a better understanding of their role in helping to identify and assist victims of human trafficking.