How to spot and report human trafficking in Los Angeles County
Wildfires and other disasters leave more than just physical destruction behind. Beyond the loss of homes and property, vulnerable individuals, trying to rebuild their lives become prime targets for human traffickers seeking to exploit urgent need.
Imagine losing your job overnight in the LA County Wildfires:
- In a desperate attempt to find new work you begin sharing your personal information with everyone and everywhere you can.
- You find a job listing offering high wages; just what you need to get back on your feet.
- In your vulnerable state, you receive an unexpected text message from an unknown employer offering a fresh start in a distant location.
- Without thinking it through, you accept the offer and move, only to find out it was a trap all along.
This scenario is more common than you think and illustrates some of the warning signs of a possible trafficking scheme. The devastation from the recent wildfires has created the ideal conditions for predators operating in the shadows.
The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs’ Office of Labor Equity can help you recognize the potential warning signs and avoid becoming a victim of labor and human trafficking.
5 Red Flags to Recognize Labor Exploitation and Human Trafficking
- Your passport or identification documents are taken away by someone else: If anyone takes away your personal documents.
- You’re monitored by another person when you talk with others: If you feel like you’re being watched or controlled when you speak, something’s not right.
- You’re not being paid what you were promised or are threatened with deportation: If you’re not getting the pay you were promised or someone is threatening to deport you, you are being exploited.
- You’re working in dangerous work conditions without proper gear, training, breaks, or protections: If your job puts you at risk without the right safety measures or little training, it’s unsafe and unacceptable.
- You don’t have control over your income or are afraid to talk about your work: If you’re too scared to talk about your job, it’s a clear sign of a very serious problem.
To report labor exploitation or human trafficking, contact the Office of Labor Equity:
- Online: dcba.lacounty.gov/stophumantrafficking
- By Email: humantrafficking@dcba.lacounty.gov
- By Phone: (800) 593-8222
