How can a community combat sex trafficking?

Investigators
Chris Oelkers, Group Supervisor for Homeland Security Investigations, and Special Agent Ann Quinn with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, at the Bloomington office of HSI on May 8, 2012.
MPR Photo/Sasha Aslanian

Local, state and federal law enforcement officials have some advice on keeping kids safe, shutting down demand for sex trafficking, particularly of underage girls, and driving it out of neighborhoods.

Parents: Be in your kids' business

BCA special agent Ann Quinn said it is essential for parents to know what their children are doing, and with whom. Listen to her comments:

Neighbors: Report suspicious activity

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BCA special agent Ann Quinn and Homeland Security Investigations Supervisor Chris Oelkers say that men engaging in illegal sexual activities often behave the same way as people buying drugs. There's a steady stream of men going to an apartment or hotel for short periods of time. Listen to their comments:

Johns: Stop buying children

An undercover agent for Homeland Security Investigations said Minnesota seems to have a lot of men paying for sex with underage girls, and for many of them it's become a hobby of sorts. Her voice has been electronically altered to disguise her identity. Listen to her comments:

More: Migration to Internet means new victims, customers