Sex Trafficking in Oklahoma: State-Specific Vulnerabilities

• In Event: Poster Session II

Abstract

This poster will present data about what is currently known about sex trafficking in Oklahoma. Prior research suggests that Native women are uniquely vulnerable to sex trafficking; that sex trafficking is strongly correlated with drug trafficking; and that drug trafficking in Oklahoma Indian Country frequently takes place at casinos. Oklahoma’s high number of casinos increases the vulnerability of women, particularly Native women, to sex trafficking victimization. Additionally, sex trafficking is an important issue in Oklahoma’s two largest cities (Tulsa and Oklahoma City) due to their positions along the I-40 and I-35 corridor. These major highways connect the two cities with sex traffickers smuggling victims to and from Texas and Mexico. It has also been noted that Oklahoma’s unique social problems, including high rates of poverty, teen pregnancy, and drug abuse, contribute to the state’s female population having an increased risk of exploitation by sex traffickers. In this poster, we will outline the various issues that come together to create a “perfect storm” for sex trafficking victimization in Oklahoma, as well as present relevant statistics that have been compiled and published by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and other sources.

Authors

• Olivia Agustin, Northeastern State University

• Nicole Lasky, Northeastern State University