Advocates
Advocates
Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children
Occurs any time a youth under the age of 18 years old exchanges a sex act or performance (whether by free will or coercion) for something of value.
Targeted
Exploiters prey on the common and expected emotional and physical needs of youth. One of the most common first encounters of an exploiter with a potential victim takes place online.
Targeted
Exploiters prey on the common and expected emotional and physical needs of youth. One of the most common first encounters of an exploiter with a potential victim takes place online.
Tricked
Exploiters are willing to invest a great deal of time and effort in their potential victim to break down their resistance and suspicion. Youth often do not realize the deceptive nature of the relationship.
Tricked
Exploiters are willing to invest a great deal of time and effort in their potential victim to break down their resistance and suspicion. Youth often do not realize the deceptive nature of the relationship.
Traumatized
Use of psychological manipulation causes the youth to think that they have more choice than is true. The youth truly believes the exploiter cares for their well-being.
Traumatized
Use of psychological manipulation causes the youth to think that they have more choice than is true. The youth truly believes the exploiter cares for their well-being.
Listen for the Signs
Listen for the Signs
How can I identify commercially sexually exploited youth around me?
Note: Commercially sexually exploited children may look like the youth you work with every day! Youth do not need to display any of these indicators to be a victim of commercial sexual exploitation.
DID YOU KNOW?
A child may be trafficked without ever leaving their hometown
Most victims of CSEC in our community are U.S. citizens
Victims of CSEC often do not immediately seek help or self-identify as victims
Victims of CSEC can come from all income levels
Commercial sexual exploitation of children is a crime against a minor, who can't consent to sex
Concerned about a child or teen?
Concerned about a child or teen?
First, create a safe space where the youth can speak openly and be heard in a non-judgmental environment. Remember, youth who experience commercial sexual exploitation are survivors and are entitled to services related to their victimization.
If it is an emergency situation, where the safety and welfare of the youth is in imminent jeopardy, contact 9-1-1 and report the situation.
Once the child is safe, contact one of the service agencies below for additional support.
Advocacy center
Free support and services for youth and adult victims of sexual abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
24-hour hotline: (607) 277-5000
Office: (607) 277-3203
The Learning Web
Helps young people ages 16-24 who have unstable, unsafe, or no housing to find housing, connect to needed services, return to school, and build employment and independent living skills.
Office: (607) 272-8162
Hours: M-F, 9am -5pm