Human Trafficking in Bay County – Special Report

BAY COUNTY – You never suspect people are being used for money, bought and sold today in your own town. “Have you seen Sound of Freedom?… There is a lot of truth to it.”, said Sheriff Ford to a packed room of the Bay County Republican Women’s group, August 17th, at Trigo’s Deli. He went on to describe how 32 victims were identified here in Bay County in 2019 and there are cases ongoing. In May, a four day sting produced 21 arrests in Panama City Beach. Just last month, a national wide sting ended in Bay County with 19 arrested. In a recent local arrest, for the first time, seven of the traffickers were illegal immigrants. The flow of illegal immigrants coming across the southern border effects every state, not just the border states.

Victims of trafficking live here and are brought here for sex crimes. 75% of victims are obtained through social media. What seems like a harmless internet “friend” could be a manipulative adult. It is important to be vigilant with children, teens and young adults that you know. Some victims are trafficked for sex, other are made to work for extremely low or no wages. Most victims are from broken or dysfunctional homes and are looking for a family.

Corporal Amy Burnette from the Criminal Investigations Division continued with more alarming information regarding the victims of human trafficking. “The tactics used are very similar to domestic violence.”, describes Corporal Burnette. The victims are just vulnerable people who are attracted by money, kindness or a sense of security. Many are marked by tattoos or crowns, bar codes or chains with their “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”‘s name. These tattoos actually mark them as property of their trafficker.

What can we do

Adult Victims

One group in Bay County is reaching out to women who work in the sex industry. “Groups of female volunteers visit sexually-oriented businesses regularly. Through consistent visits, we build relationships with the entertainers and staff. Sexually oriented businesses include strip clubs, adult stores, erotic massage parlors, and escort agencies. Volunteers bring gifts, encouragement, and the simple message that we see, value, and love you. ” – Lavished Ministries

“When the women want a change and want out, we help them.”, said a volunteer with Lavished Ministries. The faith-based mentoring program teaches them the skills they need to be on their own, offers emergency relocation, and surrounds the victim with a community of survivors.

You can also call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888

Child Victims

“In 2021, the Panhandle had the highest rate per capita of child victims for the entire state, at 282. In every Bay County human trafficking case, social media was used.Apps like Snapchat, Tik Tok, Instagram and Facebook were the most common.” – My Panhandle.com

If you know a child who may need help you can contact the Florida Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-962-2873 or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children 1-800-THE-LOST

Parents can contact the National Parent Helpline 1-855-427-2736

Shared Hope is another resource for information and help. https://sharedhope.org/ Shared Hope is dedicated to bringing an end to sex trafficking through a three-pronged approach – prevent, restore, and bring justice.