Baltimore Uber Drivers Trained On How To Spot Signs Of Human Trafficking
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- A number of Uber drivers in Baltimore took part in a training Tuesday designed to help them spot possible signs of human trafficking.
The ride-sharing service partnered with the Polaris Project, a non-profit that fights human trafficking and runs a national hotline, to teach drivers about the warning signs a victim may show.
Among the possible red flags:
- A customer asking to be dropped off at a hidden entrance
- A customer trying to pay with cash from a large stack of bills
- A potential trafficker exhibiting control over a victim
- Signs of physical or emotional abuse
Polaris said there were more than 650 sex trafficking cases reported to their hotline in Maryland between December 2007 and June 2018.
Uber has also put information on its website for drivers who couldn't make Tuesday's training.
Anyone who suspects they have information about possible human trafficking should call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text "Help" to 233733.