Colorado police sergeant reveals how human traffickers target vulnerable children: ‘Happening in our backyard’

In its first year of operation, the Aurora Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit in Colorado conducted 53 investigations, resulting in 28 arrests and the recovery of 29 survivors, including 15 minors. Sgt. Joseph Sullivan, who leads the unit, emphasized that traffickers exploit vulnerabilities such as hunger, drug addiction, and the need for housing rather than relying solely on physical abduction. The unit, created in September 2025, focuses on sex trafficking of individuals aged 21 and younger, partnering with nonprofits and federal agencies to provide survivors with long-term support and resources.

In its first year of operation, the Aurora Police Department’s Human Trafficking Unit in Colorado conducted 53 investigations, resulting in 28 arrests and the recovery of 29 survivors, including 15 minors. Sgt. Joseph Sullivan, who leads the unit, emphasized that traffickers exploit vulnerabilities such as hunger, drug addiction, and the need for housing rather than relying solely on physical abduction. The unit, created in September 2025, focuses on sex trafficking of individuals aged 21 and younger, partnering with nonprofits and federal agencies to provide survivors with long-term support and resources.