Moving forward to combat this evil together
Eastern Shore
Human Trafficking
Task Force
Human trafficking is not only a global issue or something that happens in big cities. It is happening here — in our coastal towns, rural communities, neighborhoods, farms, hotels, and online spaces. Trafficking hides in vulnerability. It relies on silence. And it can affect anyone.
The Eastern Shore Human Trafficking Task Force brings together local partners to strengthen prevention efforts, increase identification, and ensure survivors receive safety and trauma-informed support when they need it most. We are a community committed to action.
What Trafficking Looks Like Here
Human trafficking on the Eastern Shore often does not look like abduction or dramatic rescue scenarios.
It can be subtle and hidden:
A teen staying with an older partner who controls everything.
A child being exploited by someone they rely on for survival.
A worker whose housing, wages, and documents are controlled by an employer.
Someone pressured into sexual activity to cover a basic need like food or a place to sleep. A youth being manipulated by a stranger online.
These situations deserve to be recognized and responded to with care.
Our Mission
To unify law enforcement, victim service providers, healthcare professionals, educators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to develop and implement a coordinated regional strategy that effectively prevents human trafficking, protects survivors, supports prosecution of traffickers, and fosters survivor-centered justice across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Who We Serve
The Task Force supports:
- Youth and young adults who may be victims of trafficking or sexual exploitation
- Workers who may be trapped in unsafe or coerced labor conditions
- Families, professionals, and community members seeking guidance
- Local organizations who want training, resources, or partnership
- Survivors of all genders, backgrounds, and experiences
You do not have to be certain to reach out. Concern is enough.
Learn the Signs
Knowledge is prevention
Trafficking is complex, but there are patterns. When community members understand those patterns, we can interrupt exploitation earlier.
Explore our Learn More section to understand:
- What human trafficking truly is
- How traffickers target vulnerability
- Why youth are especially at risk
- The difference between sex trafficking and labor trafficking
- How online abuse and sextortion are changing the landscape
- How local laws protect victims and hold offenders accountable
- Education is one of our strongest tools for prevention.
Data and Trends
Tracking what we see to strengthen what we do.
Maryland’s Human Trafficking Dashboard provides data on cases, referrals, and trafficking indicators across the state. Local trends help us identify where support is needed most and how exploitation is evolving.
When we understand the problem, we can better design the solution.
Need Help or Have Concerns?
You are not alone If you think someone is being exploited — or if you are worried about yourself — help is available. You never need proof to ask for support. You can contact:
- The Regional Navigator Program for youth and young adults under the age of 24
- Local law enforcement for immediate safety concerns
- Child Protective Services if a child may be unsafe
- Victim services providers for confidential support and referrals Someone will listen. Someone will help.
How You Can Get Involved
Every community member plays a role in preventing trafficking. You can attend trainings, share awareness materials, volunteer with partner agencies, or simply speak up when something does not feel right.
Your attention may be the first step toward someone’s freedom.
You Have the Power to Make a Difference
Human trafficking steals freedom, but community awareness restores it. When we learn, when we collaborate, and when we support survivors without judgment, we create a safer Eastern Shore for everyone.
Together, we can break the silence around trafficking and replace it with safety and hope.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS A GROWING CONCERN
FOR OUR NATION,
THE STATE OF MARYLAND,
AND THE EASTERN SHORE.
Mission Statement
The MISSION of the Eastern Shore Human Trafficking Task Force is to prevent and combat human trafficking (sex and labor exploitation) by encouraging, supporting, and promoting public awareness and action within specific communities and counties throughout Maryland’s eastern shore.
What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is inducing children and adults to perform labor or services through force, fraud, or coercion. Human trafficking is inducing minors (under the age of 18) into commercial sex; or adults aged 18 and over into commercial sex via force, fraud, or coercion.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
IS NOW THE
2ND HIGHEST
GROSSING
CRIMINAL ENTERPRISE
IN THE UNITED STATES