Teen Texts 911, Saves Herself from Human Trafficking in Ventura County

The sheriff’s office in Ventura County, California is promoting the use of texting 911 after a teenage girl saved herself from human trafficking by using this feature. The 17-year-old girl, who only spoke Spanish, was rescued in Casitas Springs in unincorporated Ventura County at around 3 a.m. on May 9. She was able to send text messages for help, which were received in Spanish and translated to English at the Sheriff’s Communication Center. Despite the language barrier, the girl was able to provide enough information for help to reach her. Her alleged abductor, 31-year-old Gerardo Cruz of Veracruz, Mexico, was arrested and faces charges including human trafficking and forcible rape. The girl, who had been trafficked from Mexico two months ago, is now in the care of Child Family Services until she can be reunited with her family. For more information on recognizing signs of human trafficking, visit the U.S. Department of State website, and to report a tip or seek assistance, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.