Monterey County agencies bring awareness to human trafficking

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Ashley Chesney said she grew up on the Monterey Peninsula with a caring family who supported her love of sports, but that all changed at the age of 19.

"Through my drug addiction and sexual abuse as a child, I believe that's what led me to be a good target for traffickers," said Chesney.

Chesney said she was first trafficked by an older boyfriend, and later through an escort service in Monterey.

She now joins a band of survivors who have received help in Monterey County. Since 2015, Monterey County has identified over 100 victims of trafficking and exploitation.

"Even in a small community like ours, trafficking and exploitation is a real problem," said Monterey County Department of Social Services Child Welfare Analyst, Patricia Hernandez.

The Monterey County Department of Social Services said they have seen an increase in the number from trafficking cases reported over the past year.

According to the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center, 25% of all trafficking victims are children.

"It's very easy for young people to get drawn into human trafficking without them even realizing that they're getting sucked in. They're seeking out the support or looking for love. Sometimes they're looking for love in the wrong places," said Monterey County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Deneen Guss.

The Monterey County Office of Education, Community Human Services, the Monterey County Department of Social Services brought attention to the issue of human trafficking, Friday.

At Friday's event, attendees were given "tip cards" to outline to key red flags to look out for, and who to call if you believe someone is being trafficked.

"The numbers are getting larger. It's a billion dollar industry. We need to spread awareness because that's not going to stop," said Chesney.