Human trafficking is a serious issue in Colorado that affects both adults and children. According
to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 192 cases involving 246 victims were identified in
Colorado in 2025. The Common Sense Institute also reported that preliminary Colorado Bureau
of Investigation data recorded 110 human trafficking offenses in 2025. Of those, 87 involved sex
trafficking and 23 involved involuntary labor. The report also identified 48 victims under the age
of 18. These numbers show that human trafficking is not just something happening in other
countries, but it is also happening in our communities here in Colorado. It is important to
remember that these numbers only include cases that were reported or identified, so the actual
number of victims could be higher.
Adams County is one area where this issue deserves attention. According to the Common
Sense Institute, 211 trafficking victims were recorded in Adams County between 2008 and 2025,
representing 27% of the statewide total in the report. Fighting human trafficking involves more
than investigating cases and arresting offenders. Survivors also need help after leaving these
situations. This can include safe housing, counseling, healthcare, legal assistance, and help
finding employment. The planned Family Justice Center connected to the 17th Judicial District
Attorney's Office, which serves Adams and Broomfield Counties, is one local effort intended to
bring different support services together. Making sure trafficking survivors are included and can
access these services is an important part of addressing the issue.
Through my advocacy project, I am focusing on how Colorado can improve support for people
affected by human trafficking, especially in Adams and Broomfield Counties. Based on the
research, I believe more attention needs to be given to what happens to survivors after they are
identified. I am advocating for better coordination between law enforcement, government
agencies, and community organizations so survivors can get access to the resources they need.
This includes improving access to housing, counseling, healthcare, and legal assistance. I will
address these recommendations in an advocacy letter to local government officials, asking them
to support stronger partnerships and better access to survivor services. The goal is not only to
identify and stop trafficking, but also to help survivors move forward with their lives.
Sources
● National Human Trafficking Hotline, Colorado Statistics
● Common Sense Institute, Human Trafficking in Colorado: 2025 Update, February 2026.
● Colorado Human Trafficking Council, 2025 Annual Report announcement
● 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Family Justice Center information
