Police Data Diagnoses Twin Falls ID As Human Trafficking Hot Spot

Human trafficking is a crime that has been spreading steadily across the United States for the past few decades. Police data has found that the crime itself, and the solicitation of it, is going on in just about every major city in the country, including two identified as hot spots by state law enforcement in Idaho.

Human trafficking is the crime of arranging the transfer of money in exchange for an illicit act that is usually sexual involving an unwilling participant, and often a juvenile. The entire process from planning to transporting makes up the crime, and some of the victims are often taken against their will or outright kidnapped. It's also defined as sexual slavery by websites such as Blue Campaign.

Massage parlors in this region of the state were included in the report as potential sources for human trafficking.

Get our free mobile app

This month, many news sources are raising awareness of the nationwide epidemic of human trafficking. Some who follow the activity closely in the Gem State have published information that appears to show the crime is growing at a rapid pace in the state.

A 2023 report (some details are graphic) compiled by a lieutenant with the Nampa Police Department revealed some sobering statistics for those who reside in the Magic Valley. It was determined that there are a staggering number of online ads and websites that promote this type of activity that originates from southern Idaho sources.

Massage parlors in this region of the state were included in the report as potential sources for human trafficking. Close to 50 acts of human trafficking were reported in 2022 by the department, and Twin Falls County was pinpointed as having the second most suspected cases involving juveniles statewide behind Ada County.