The COVID-19 virus and subsequent lock downs and actions to counteract the virus have combined to inadvertently make it easier for predators to victimize children. The release of many prisoners during the quarantine process, in addition to bringing children home, nationwide, where they are now given more online access, and time, has created a perfect storm for sexual predators giving them unprecedented access to children. 

The Dangers of Online Predators

While the sex trafficker can’t come through the computer and kidnap a child, they use their online relationship to groom them, building trust and creating a separation between these kids and their families. The end result is a child who is distant from their family and friends, and who commits entirely to a fictional persona, the predator is presenting online. Since kids are attending school at home online during the shutdowns, the predator has greater access to kids online and through social media, which of course, will eventually— if not stopped— lead them to running away into the waiting arms of their eventual captures. 

How Big of a Problem is This Issue?

In San Diego—where we at Saved In America have our headquarters— between 3,000 and 8,000 kids on average become victims of sex trafficking on an annual basis. This is second largest trafficking corridor in the nation. The average age of the targeted victim is 15 years of age, and the vast majority of victims come from either foster homes or from homes where abuse is present, prompting the child to run away. 

Saved In America is Working to Protect Children 

With the increase of online activity due to the virus, it is now important, more than ever, to get the word out about the dangers of sexual predators and human trafficking. Our organization, made up of volunteers who come from various professional backgrounds including law enforcement and military specialists are committed to saving as many of these at-risk children as possible. At Saved In America, we are licensed and insured private investigators who understand the dangers associated with human trafficking and are uniquely qualified to track down, find and assist in the recovery of these children. We are also committed to assisting with long term rehabilitation, continued education, and helping the victims during the criminal proceedings to increase the likelihood of a serious conviction. Justice must be served. #ChildSavedNotSold