Exploring Gaps in Identification: Estimating the Prevalence of Sex Trafficking in Sacramento County

Human trafficking is a hidden crime, and lack of empirical data on the scope of the problem and the extent to which it is under-identified limits efforts to disrupt trafficking and meet the needs of those who have been exploited. In addition to understanding prevalence, formulating effective prevention and response efforts requires more information on the nature of people’s lived experience with human trafficking. In this multiple-methods study, we estimate the prevalence of sex trafficking and the extent to which it has been identified by law enforcement and service providers in a single county and explore what contributes to the gap in identification. We use multiple systems estimation to estimate prevalence and assess the extent of under-identification and use semi-structured interviews with people with lived experience to explore their interactions with those tasked with identifying and responding to trafficking (i.e. law enforcement and service providers). The findings suggest that only about 10% of individuals who experienced sex trafficking were identified, and both law enforcement and service providers are missing opportunities to intervene. We conclude with recommendations for policy and practice and for future research. This article addresses U.N. Sustainability Goal 16 to Promote just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.