I mentioned this three weeks ago, but now is the time to revisit it. People are uncomfortable with this topic, but the Kentucky Derby is the second-biggest event in the country for sex trafficking. Many of the victims of sex trafficking are girls between the ages of 13 to 16 years old, most of whom are stolen from their families and forced to do things no child should ever know.
This week, as you go about your Derby activities, keep an eye out. Watch for people who appear fearful, avoid eye contact or give scripted answers to simple questions. Look for signs of physical abuse like bruises, malnutrition or "branding" tattoos that look like a barcode or money symbols on the neck or lower back. The individual may be wearing clothing that is inappropriately sexual for their age or not suitable for the current weather conditions. If you see someone like this, watch for another person lurking nearby.
If you see someone you think might be a victim of human sex trafficking, it's probably best not to do anything yourself, but call 911 or call the FBI Tip Line at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Someone's very life might depend on your keen sense of awareness.
I'm Bill Lamb, and that's my Point of View.
