Protecting Our Children: Insights from Joseph Travers on Human Trafficking in San Diego

In a recent interview with radio hosts Conway and Larson, Joseph Travers, founder of the San Diego-based organization Saved in America, sheds light on the alarming issue of human trafficking in our community. The conversation centered around two recent attempted kidnappings at Mission Valley Mall, where a 42-year-old man allegedly tried to abduct a six-year-old and a five-year-old girl on separate occasions.

A Wake-Up Call for Parents and Caregivers

The swift action by the San Diego Police Department in apprehending the suspect brings a sense of relief. However, Travers emphasizes that these incidents are not isolated. According to the FBI [1}, San Diego is identified as one of the top 13 high-intensity child prostitution areas in the United States [2]. This grim statistic highlights the urgent need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to protect our children.

The Reality of Human Trafficking

Travers points out that human trafficking has escalated, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the exploitation of technology. The open borders have also contributed to the influx of criminal activities, including trafficking orchestrated by cartels. The brazenness of attempting to kidnap children in broad daylight is a stark reminder that we are facing challenges previously unseen in our country.

Practical Steps to Ensure Child Safety

So, what can parents and caregivers do to safeguard their children? Travers offers several practical suggestions:

1. Child Tracker Bracelets: Affordable and accessible, these devices allow parents to monitor their children's whereabouts in real-time.

2. Cell Phone Trackers: For older children who have cell phones, installing tracking apps can provide an added layer of security.

3. Child Harnesses or Leashes: While some may feel hesitant about using them, these tools can prevent young children from wandering off in crowded or public places.

Travers acknowledges that while these measures might seem extreme, the safety of our children is paramount. "You are their protector," he reminds us. In an era where human trafficking is a pressing concern, taking extra precautions is a responsible choice.

Community Awareness and Action

The interview also touched upon the broader issue of border security and its impact on trafficking. Travers advocates for stronger measures to control the borders, which could significantly reduce the activities of cartels and traffickers.

Moreover, community involvement is crucial. Being observant, reporting suspicious activities, and educating ourselves and our children about the dangers of trafficking can make a significant difference.

About Saved in America

Saved in America is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing missing and exploited children. Comprised of former law enforcement officers and Navy SEALs, the team works tirelessly to locate and recover victims of trafficking. Their efforts not only reunite families but also raise awareness about the pervasive issue of human trafficking in our communities.

Listen to the Podcast on Saved in America’s Youtube Channel:

How You Can Help

The interview with Joseph Travers serves as a sobering reminder that while law enforcement agencies are working diligently to keep us safe, the responsibility also lies with us as a community. By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, we can create a safer environment for our children.

For more information on how you can support the fight against human trafficking or to learn about preventative measures, visit Saved in America's website.

Let's stand together to protect our most vulnerable and ensure that our communities remain a safe place for all families.

Please donate to our mission to help end child sex trafficking. Thank you.

Sources:

Conway and Larson Podcast, and:

1. FBI.gov: “Based upon an initial review of the available intelligence on child prostitution collected from ongoing investigations, human source information, information provided by numerous local and state law enforcement agencies, and the NCMEC, 14 FBI field offices were identified as having the highest incidence of children used in prostitution. The 14 FBI offices identified were: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, St. Louis, Tampa, and Washington, D.C.”

2. SD County DA’s office website: “San Diego was identified by the FBI as of the top 13 high intensity child prostitution areas.”