In late July, the FBI conducted Operation Cross Country VII, a nationwide action that addressed commercial child sex trafficking throughout the United States. The operation included 76 cities across the country, and 47 FBI divisions. Federal, state and local agencies all participated. Through the operation, they were able to recover 105 children victims of prostitution, and 152 pimps were arrested.
There are many ways to promote child safety and help prevent child exploitation. Tips to prevent child abduction include:
- Never leave them alone in a stroller or car
- Have them fingerprinted at your local police department
- Set boundaries about where your kids are allowed to go and with whom
- Talk to them about online safety and monitor their use
- Talk to your kids about strangers and what they should do if one approaches them
- Make sure they know their name, address, phone number and how to call 911
- Always have an up-to-date photo on hand of your children
If your child, or a child you know, has been abducted, call Child Protection Education of America at 1-866-USA-CHILD or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.