Predators wait just down the street from group homes in New Brunswick. They know the schedules of the youth living inside and use this information to exploit them.

According to a recent investigative report by CBC News, human traffickers actively target vulnerable young people in provincial care. Support workers and police confirm this is a growing crisis across the province, including right here in Saint John.

How Traffickers Lure Youth

Traffickers do not usually start with violence. They begin by building trust. Maggie, a support worker at Community of Hope in Moncton, told CBC News that traffickers learn what a young person wants and provide it. They offer cigarettes, new clothes, or trips to the mall.

This tactic is known as love bombing. For a teenager who lacks a stable home life, this attention feels like safety and connection.

Ashley MacDonald works at YWCA Brave in Moncton. She says traffickers often act as a Romeo pimp where the victim believes they are falling in love. The trafficker asks about their day and listens to their stories.

Eventually, the relationship turns exploitative. Liz Hawkes, a community ambassador at Community of Hope, notes that the average age of a trafficking victim is just 13. Once the trafficker has control, they demand repayment for the gifts. They tell the victim they owe them.

Police Sound the Alarm in Saint John

Law enforcement agencies across New Brunswick know about this threat. During a Court of King’s Bench hearing in Saint John earlier this year, a local police investigator testified about the severity of the issue.

Justice Danys R.X. Delaquis summarized the officer’s testimony in a March decision. The officer stated that human trafficking is prevalent and targets individuals associated with group homes. The officer described the crime as modern day slavery.

The RCMP also investigates reports of sexual exploitation and human trafficking involving youth in care. Sgt. Holly Erb, the New Brunswick RCMP sexual violence coordinator, says victims rarely recognize their situation at first.

“They don’t see themselves as victims,” Erb told CBC News. “It’s not until things are outside of their control that they recognize then there’s a need for help.”

Why Group Home Residents Are Targets

Youth in government care face unique challenges that make them prime targets. Mel Kennah, executive director of Youth Impact Jeunesse, explains that these young people often have fractured relationships with the adults they depend on.

Every young person needs a reliable adult looking out for their best interests. When those relationships are interrupted, youth seek connection elsewhere. Traffickers exploit this deep need for belonging. Social media gives these predators direct access to vulnerable teenagers.

The Path to Recovery

Leaving a trafficker takes immense courage. MacDonald says it takes a victim anywhere from five to 20 attempts to finally break free. Even after leaving, fear often dictates their decisions.

Recovery programs focus on helping youth regain control over their lives. MacDonald encourages the young people she works with to lead their own recovery journey. She also urges group home staff and caregivers to build strong, dependable relationships with the youth in their care.

Consistently reinforcing a young person’s value is the best defense against exploitation.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 833 900 1010. It is available 24 hours a day across Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is human trafficking?

Human trafficking involves gaining control over another person and exploiting them for material or financial gain. This often includes sexual exploitation or forced labor.

Why do traffickers target group homes?

Traffickers target group homes because the youth living there often lack stable family support. Predators exploit their need for connection, love, and basic necessities.

What is a Romeo pimp?

A Romeo pimp is a trafficker who uses romance and affection to manipulate a victim. The victim believes they are in a loving relationship, making it easier for the trafficker to exploit them.

How can we protect vulnerable youth?

Education and strong community support are essential. Caregivers, teachers, and police must collaborate to educate youth about the warning signs. Building strong, dependable relationships with young people helps prevent traffickers from filling that void.