MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW)- According to a study, human trafficking will spike during Memorial Day Weekend.
That study done by Carnegie Mellon University in 2016 said Myrtle Beach bike week surpassed the Super Bowl when it came to sex trafficking
Those with the Rape Crisis Center said offenders take advantage of these large events.
They have staff working around the clock this weekend.
Those with the rape crisis center have been speaking at events throughout the week and will also put up informational posters that will stay up through the summer.
According to the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, thirteen new cases of human trafficking were charged in South Carolina courts last year, and 64 cases were closed. Of those closed, nearly a quarter were from Horry County.
Those with the rape crisis center said they’ve seen an increase in human trafficking reports this year.
They can’t necessarily determine if it’s happening more or if people are more aware of the crime.
They’re urging people this weekend if you see something say something
“There is an increase in law enforcement, so take advantage of that and go to law enforcement and say I saw something that seems a little suspicious and I wanted to report it,” said Layveleta Walker, with the Rape Crisis Center.
If you are a victim or suspect someone is, call the Rape Crisis Center.
Horry County:
843-448-7273
Georgetown County:
843-545-5198
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