Resources
Human Trafficking
What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit someone for labor, services, or sex. Trafficking can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or location, and often goes unnoticed. Victims may be afraid to ask for help or may not realize they are being exploited. If someone feels trapped, unsafe, or unable to leave a situation because of fear or pressure, they may be experiencing trafficking.
Types of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking can take many forms and often overlaps with other types of harm. Under both federal and Colorado law, trafficking is generally categorized as either labor trafficking or sex trafficking, though these experiences are not always separate. It’s important to remember that individuals in trafficking situations may not identify as victims, and their experiences are often shaped by complex emotional, psychological, and financial factors.
Labor Trafficking
Labor trafficking happens when a person is forced, tricked, or pressured into working against their will. This can occur in many settings, from homes and farms to factories and restaurants. Victims may be controlled through threats, lies, debt, or isolation. Often, they are denied basic rights and may not feel safe seeking help.
Sex Trafficking
Sex trafficking involves someone being exploited through force, fraud, or coercion to engage in commercial sex. In cases involving minors, any exchange of sex for something of value, such as money, housing, or food, is considered trafficking, even if there is no clear force or coercion involved.
Reporting Options
In Colorado, survivors of human trafficking have three reporting options. Please note that these reporting options do not apply for minors (C.R.S. 19-3-304) and at-risk elders (C.R.S, 18-6.5-108), due to other mandatory reporting obligations. For individuals who do not fall under these two statutes, survivors have three reporting options:
Law Enforcement Report
A survivor chooses to obtain a medical forensic exam and chooses to participate in the criminal justice system.
Medical Report
A survivor chooses to obtain a medical forensic exam but not to participate in the criminal justice system. Evidence and survivor-identifying information is released to law enforcement. The survivor can choose to have evidence tested.
Anonymous Report
A survivor chooses to obtain a medical forensic exam but not participate in the criminal justice system. Evidence is released to law enforcement without survivor-identifying information. An anonymous reporting survivor is consenting to evidence storage only.
Our advocates can help explain your rights, connect you to resources, and accompany you through any next steps, all while honoring your privacy and choices.
There is Hope
You are not alone, and you are not to blame. There are people who care, who will believe you, and who can help.
Clear Creek Advocates offers confidential support, resources, and guidance to help you find safety and begin healing. Whether you need immediate help or just someone to talk to, we are here.
Call an Advocate 303-679-2426 to get help now.