Child Trafficking in the Digital Age with Andrea Sparks Part 1

WARNING: This episode's content contains mature and strong
content. Discretion is advised.


There is an alarming issue of child trafficking in Texas and
technology is playing a significant role.


In part one of this conversation with Andrea Sparks, a dedicated
child advocate with extensive experience in various roles related
to child protection. She has represented children in CPS and
juvenile justice cases, served as the director of public affairs
at Texas CASA, and held positions at the Texas Office of the
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Currently,
she is the Director of Government Affairs at Buckner
International and a co-founder of the nonprofit group, Not On Our
Watch Texas.


In this episode, Frank is joined by David Hinkle, a passionate
advocate for children and veterans through his Warrior National
Foundation. Together, they address the pressing issues
surrounding child trafficking and the rights of parents to
protect their children.


Andrea begins by dispelling some common misconceptions about
child trafficking, particularly the alarming statistic of 79,000
girls being trafficked in the U.S. She clarifies that this figure
was based on a study estimating those at risk and vulnerable to
exploitation. Andrea emphasizes the prevalence of online
exploitation and grooming, especially in the era of smartphones
and social media. The conversation highlights the vulnerabilities
children face in the digital age and the role parents can play in
protecting them.


Andrea also introduces "Not On Our Watch Texas," a volunteer
project dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers children
face online and providing support to parents. This initiative
aims to educate and empower parents in understanding the risks
and taking proactive measures to keep their children safe from
online exploitation.


The episode sheds light on the rising issue of "sextortion,"
where perpetrators manipulate children into sharing explicit
content and then use it to extort them. Andrea explains the
alarming increase in this type of crime, emphasizing that it can
happen to anyone, regardless of their family background or
community.


The importance of open communication with children and creating a
safe space for them to seek help and report any concerning online
interactions is stressed. Andrea concludes by sharing resources,
such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's
"Take It Down" program, designed to help take down explicit
content shared online.


This episode serves as a wake-up call for parents and caregivers
to be vigilant in protecting their children from online threats.
It also highlights the critical work being done by organizations
like "Not On Our Watch Texas" to empower parents and raise
awareness about child trafficking and online exploitation.


We cannot protect against what we are not aware of. Join the
fight against child trafficking in Texas:
https://notonourwatchtx.com/


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Produced by: Terra Firma Audio
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