MEDIA NOTE: A version of the video without captions can be found HERE. 

There is nothing human about human trafficking. This abominable crime is the act of forcing or coercing men, women, and/or children into labor that results in involuntary sexual exploitation, debt bondage, or slavery. Traffickers use manipulation, violence, and threats to control their victims. It is a felony, and it needs to be stopped. 

During January, investigators from the Broward Sheriff’s Office’s Strategic Investigations Division (SID) placed Quick Response codes in high-traffic areas in Broward County. The QR codes can be easily scanned with a phone and provide life-saving information at the victims’ fingertips. 

The codes immediately connect to BSO’s Human Trafficking page, giving people direct access to vital resources such as how and where to get help, what signs to look for if you suspect someone is a victim, and how to report this crime. 

Victims also learn they can receive help from organizations other than law enforcement if they wish to do so. 

BSO’s SID Sergeant Erica Rockey, who leads this initiative, reminds victims that there is hope and a way out of their circumstances. “Although you think this is your only option, because of the things you have gone through, and the things the trafficker has put in your mind, there are ways you can get your life back and recover and we can help you do that,” Sgt. Rockey said.

BSO remains committed to helping eradicate human trafficking in Broward.

If you suspect human trafficking in your community, BSO encourages you to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888, text "BeFree" to 233733 or call the BSO non-emergency number at 954-764-4357 (HELP). For emergencies and in-progress crimes, dial or text 911.

To learn more about what human trafficking is, please visit the National Human Trafficking Hotline page at https://humantraffickinghotline.org. 

Let's work together to end human trafficking. If you see something, say something!