Human trafficking not limited to foreign countries Published Nov. 15, 2010 By Capt. Tamara Fischer-Carter 21st Security Forces Squadron PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Although slavery was abolished in the United States nearly 150 years ago, a recent case in Denver shows modern-day slavery continues to thrive in the United States. This makes it vital for people to know the signs and avoid becoming facilitators of what is known as human trafficking. Recently, a Denver man was charged with one count of trafficking in adults and one count of trafficking in children for allegedly running an "out-call" prostitution service from hotels and motels in Denver and Lakewood. "Many people believe human trafficking is not an issue in this area and believe it only happens overseas," said David Stewart, 21st Security Forces Squadron investigator. "As horrible as it might be, there is human trafficking going on in our community right now and the only way to fight it is through awareness and reporting." Understanding the problem of human trafficking is vital to stopping it. Human trafficking is the use of another human being for illegal purposes such as commercial sex and forced labor. "Air Force members and civilians alike need to understand they can be prosecuted for human trafficking, even if they are unaware they are involved in this criminal activity," he said. People should be aware of, and avoid, any establishment using secretive advertisement for services, or restrictive access where you would not normally expect it. In many cases, victims of human trafficking are unable to speak the local language and can't move freely about the community, or are accompanied by a chaperone. It is vital that all Department of Defense personnel are aware of the warning signs before visiting high-risk establishments. Even though businesses such as brothels are legal in other countries, if human trafficking occurs at these establishments, visiting DoD personnel can still be prosecuted by the United States. Individuals who suspect human trafficking should report it to security forces, inspector general offices, or the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. To report anonymously, contact the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 888-373-7888.