Human trafficking is a $32 Billion global industry and a constantly evolving crime. But now – with Florida ranked third in the nation for modern-day slavery – experts are learning to identify forced labor and prostitution, and to help the victims.
On Wednesday, Florida State University hosted a community training on human trafficking for about 75 police officers, clergy and social workers.
Terry Coonan, the director of FSU's Center for the Advancement of Human Rights, says runaway teenagers are the most at risk, especially if they've left a troubled home.
"These are children that actually don't have a biological family to go back to. They are the prime victims", Coonan said. "And we've seen cases all over this state – north, south and central Florida – where these children are being exploited."
Coonan says traffickers target the most vulnerable, luring them with promises of jobs, money, citizenship – even romance. He says Florida lawmakers have given prosecutors more tools, so raising awareness is the next step.
The National Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.