Although sporting events, like the recent one featuring the best of the best college basketball teams, the NCAA Basketball Final Four, are typically viewed for entertainment and seen as something positive both in the area they are being hosted across the nation, there is a darker side to the world of sports. The NCAA Final Four took place over the weekend in Houston, Texas, and wasn’t without some issues. 

Why Sporting Events Tend to Draw in Crime Like Prostitution

The influx of hundreds and thousands of people into one city gives a boost to local restaurants and hotels. However, it also increases the incidents of sex crimes. Hope over Hurt is an organization that fights against human trafficking in the area. Their group’s founder Wendi Turner explains more about the problem that high-profile sporting events like this one can present and the way it can make pimps even bolder as they blend into the crowds:

“The pimps have never been this prevalent. They’re moving girls from different area codes to be trafficked. Different cities, different states. These are events (speaking of the Final Four) where trafficking will take place.” 

Taking Action

Thankfully, the people in charge of the Final Four security recognized the risk associated with having such a large amount of people gathered in one location. They have worked with local organizations to create programs designed to reduce the risk of this type of crime happening. The plan involves a flow chart, victim services, survivor leaders, human trafficking units, and added security.

Past Events, The Stats 

The 2023 Super Bowl was another sporting event that drew in pimps and predators galore. There were 48 felony arrests as well as 300 misdemeanor charges made during that time. Thankfully, there were also five kids and one adult rescued. With the Final Four event having just taken place, numbers for the weekend have not been posted in their entirety. However, as of right now, at least 47 individuals were facing probable cause bookings for solicitation of prostitution with an individual under 16 or felony solicitation of a minor. Saved in America works hard to continue to combat the instances of human trafficking throughout the United States. They are happy to support law enforcement’s efforts when gearing up for a specific situation like a big-time sporting event.