Then, they move to romance the person(s) they intend to traffick with dates, gifts, and other steps designed to create a bond. After trust becomes established, Romeo pimps begin to manipulate, control, and isolate their targets.
In many cases where victims are groomed, they are manipulated into exploitative situations by someone they know and care about, such as a family member, friend, or intimate partner (known as a “Romeo pimp”). Learn how to recognize signs of grooming here: https://t.co/TaPN0uJv99 pic.twitter.com/4uiL0vPACB
— Operation Underground Railroad (@OURrescue) February 10, 2022
From here, it only gets worse with abuse and exploitation happening. Romeo pimps will also seek to normalize these crimes in the minds of trafficked persons by telling them it’s all part of their relationships together.
Sadly, Romeo pimps are not always easy to recognize in the beginning; this is why raising awareness and ensuring that people know red flags and what to look for matters.
Anyone who wishes to report what they believe to be human trafficking can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline via phone at 1 (888) 373-7888 or by text at 233733.
