Executive Summary
- Experts warn that the large crowds and celebratory atmosphere of the Super Bowl increase human trafficking risks.
- The Demand Project notes that the influx of visitors fuels the demand for illicit services.
- Survivors highlight that traffickers exploit the anonymity of major events to target vulnerable individuals.
- Law enforcement task forces and NGOs are utilizing analytical support to monitor the event for trafficking activity.
As millions of spectators gather for Super Bowl festivities, anti-trafficking organizations and law enforcement officials are issuing warnings regarding a heightened risk of human trafficking associated with major sporting events. Experts advise that the convergence of large crowds, high-volume tourism, and a party atmosphere creates an environment that traffickers actively exploit to victimize vulnerable individuals.
Kristin Weis, co-founder and CEO of The Demand Project, emphasized that the dynamics of the Super Bowl fuel the illicit market. According to Weis, the celebratory nature of the event, often accompanied by alcohol and drug use, drives demand for commercial sex acts. “These big events draw more attention, and they drive more fuel for the demand,” Weis stated, noting that traffickers view the influx of visitors as a business opportunity to exploit victims.
Janae Swann, a survivor who was trafficked by an international drug cartel, provided insight into the tactics used by perpetrators. Swann explained that traffickers specifically target individuals struggling with vulnerabilities, such as addiction or housing instability. “Vulnerable people become more vulnerable when there are more people around,” Swann said. She noted that the chaotic environment of large-scale events allows traffickers to move victims and operate with relative anonymity.
In response to these threats, specialized organizations are coordinating directly with law enforcement agencies. Joseph Scaramucci of Skull Games confirmed that his organization is providing analytical support to task forces dedicated to monitoring the Super Bowl. Similarly, Weis described The Demand Project as operating on an emergency standby basis to assist law enforcement and potential victims immediately should a crisis arise.
Public Safety Strategy
The correlation between mega-events and spikes in illicit activities necessitates a proactive, multi-agency security strategy. Law enforcement agencies typically deploy specialized task forces during the Super Bowl to monitor online marketplaces and physical venues for signs of exploitation. The integration of non-profit advocacy groups into these operations underscores a tactical shift toward a victim-centered approach, ensuring that immediate support services are available alongside criminal interdiction efforts.
