Youth in New Brunswick Group Homes Targeted by Human Traffickers, Police and Advocates Warn
Police and support organizations in New Brunswick report that youth living in government care, particularly those in group homes, are being targeted for human trafficking. Traffickers exploit the vulnerability of these youths by offering gifts, attention, and a sense of safety to build trust before turning exploitative.
Support workers and police in New Brunswick state that group homes are being targeted for human trafficking, with traffickers focusing on youth in government care. An officer from the Saint John Police Department testified earlier this year in a Court of King’s Bench case that human trafficking is prevalent and under investigation regarding individuals targeting group homes. The RCMP has also investigated reports of youth in care environments being victimized through sexual exploitation or human trafficking.
Traffickers target youth in care by learning their needs and providing gifts or experiences to establish trust and a false sense of safety. Mel Kennah, executive director of Youth Impact Jeunesse, explained that youth in care are more vulnerable due to fractured or interrupted relationships with adults. Liz Hawkes, a community ambassador at Community of Hope, stated that the average age of a trafficking victim is 13.
Sgt. Holly Erb of the New Brunswick RCMP stated that youth victims often do not see themselves as victims until situations become uncontrollable. Ashley MacDonald from YWCA Brave noted that nine out of ten cases involve a "Romeo pimp," where the victim believes they are falling in love with the trafficker. Traffickers may use "love bombing" or brand victims with tattoos to maintain control.
Recovery remains difficult. Victims may require anywhere from five to twenty attempts to leave a trafficking situation before successfully exiting. Authorities and advocates emphasize the need for increased education and collaboration among police, social services, and community agencies to prevent trafficking and support recovery. A hotline is available at 1-833-900-1010.