4 Tips to Avoid Human Trafficking in Fort Collins

Unbeknownst to most people, Fort Collins has a serious problem regarding human trafficking. After speaking with many law enforcement officials, these are the best ways to keep yourself out of harms way and minimize your risk.

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

“People” by Tabsner is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Being aware of who is around you and where you are can be major factors in determining if you will be targeted. Many criminals act on communities and individuals with a false sense of security. Keep your eyes open as it often tends to be those who we don't expect to be committing the crimes.

2. Avoid Motels, and Run Down Hotels

“Cross Country Motel 2005” by themarkpike is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

There are many cheap motels and smaller run down hotels spread across East Fort Collins leading up to I-25. Many of these motels are used by traffickers traveling through Colorado as they are a cheap and fast option with little supervision. On the edges of the Fort Collins, these motels are located in more economically depressed areas with higher crime rates. Fort Collins PD has setup a task force to combat these specific areas but it’s best to avoid them in general.

3. Fight or Flight

“Running” by Iouri Goussev is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The number one defense against any sort of crime is to prevent or get away from it. If getting away from the aggressor is not an option, self defense becomes the next best thing. Pepper spray, martial arts, fire arms and knives can all be self defense weapons if used properly.

4. Know the Warning Signs

“Neighbourhood at night [Explored]” by Franck Michel is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Dark and poorly lit areas are more likely to be a target location for crime. Large national events can also bring in an influx in trafficking and crime. Many traffickers will use large events as opportunities to traffic at higher rates due to police activity being taken away from local crime.