Truck drivers are often exposed to human trafficking without ever knowing it. Prostitution is rampant throughout our country. What many people don’t know is that many of these women and children are actually slaves forced into performing sexual acts by their pimp or trafficker while receiving little to no money. Victims receive plenty of beatings and threats in order to continue.

 Mark Brown, assistant director of Central Tech Truck Driver Training, answered a few questions for Truckers Against Trafficking about what he’s seen during his 31 years in the trucking industry.

Q: When you were driving a truck, were you aware that there was such a thing as human trafficking taking place?

A: No.

Q: Can you tell us some things you saw or heard that confirmed to you that this crime is taking place?

A: I have seen prostitution at major truck stops and rest areas.

Q: Could you describe a time when you saw prostitution face to face, but in hindsight would identify it as a human trafficking situation?

A: I was at a truck stop when a young woman approached and made me an offer. After I turned her down, she said, “You see that Cadillac over there?” I looked up and saw it. She said, “If I don’t make my quota they’re gonna beat the hell out of me.”

Q: When you recently shared with a class of graduating truckers about human trafficking, what was their reaction?

A: They were overwhelmed; they were stunned and disgusted.

Q: What are some of the main points you emphasized to them and want them to remember when you shared [your information] about human trafficking?

A: These victims are being threatened so severely with their life and many times with the life of someone they know to prevent them from escaping or asking for help. Human trafficking is a problem, and they can help play a part in stopping this crime.

If you would like more information about Truckers Against Trafficking, please visit their website at www.truckersagainsttrafficking.com.