SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The state of Illinois is asking for the public’s help in cracking down on child human trafficking.
The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services on Monday said trafficking of children for sex occurs throughout Illinois. The department says it has investigated more than 600 allegations of the crime in Illinois since 2011.
They say there are several potential signs that a child is being victimized. They include young people running away from home, having expensive clothing or jewelry they couldn’t otherwise afford, new tattoos or “branding”, or kids who become isolated from family and friends.
DCFS says many victims are as young as 12.
Anyone who suspects a case of child human trafficking should call 911 or the DCFS abuse and neglect hotline.
More information can be seen online at www.dcfs.Illinois.gov
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