SBI Warns: Child Trafficking Linked to Increased Internet Access

RALEIGH, N.C. — The State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) announced a troubling trend: child trafficking is worsening, correlating with increased internet access among minors.

“We are seeing a dramatic increase in instances of child sexual exploitation, child solicitation, and human trafficking,” said Chadrick Barefoot, assistant special agent in charge of SBI’s Computer Crimes Unit. “It’s not getting better. However, it’s something that I know we can overcome these challenges.” The SBI’s remarks come following two high-profile Amber Alert investigations this week concerning the abduction of two 15-year-old girls, both of whom were located and returned home safely.

Four men face serious charges related to these cases. In Siler City, Ronny Suarez and Saul Ramirez Guvara were charged with first-degree kidnapping, human trafficking of a child victim, solicitation of a child by computer, and additional offenses. In Harnett County, Elihue Mahler and Austyn Cole were charged with human trafficking of a child victim, felony kidnapping, and conspiracy to kidnap. Authorities noted that the men had communicated online with their victim prior to the abduction.

Agent Barefoot emphasized that online platforms are becoming increasingly popular among traffickers targeting children. “We live in a world where our children, in the perceived safety of their own homes, can be victimized by offenders anywhere,” he said. He added that the risk transcends geographic and socioeconomic barriers; if a child has online communication access without appropriate supervision, they become vulnerable.

Activist Paul Hutchinson, founder of the child rescue organization, has conducted 70 undercover missions across 15 countries, rescuing more than 7,000 children in the past decade. He highlighted the stark reality of trafficking operations in the U.S. and emphasized that many children are targeted through social media. “They don’t realize that this is happening in our own backyards,” Hutchinson said. “The last four years have seen a significant increase in child trafficking here in the U.S.”

Hutchinson urged parents to monitor their children’s online activity, advising them to have login information for social media accounts and to limit sharing capabilities. “Be involved in what their social media looks like,” he stated. “Turn off their sharing with the entire world. They can share with their friends, but not the entire world.” Furthermore, he suggested that fostering a healthy relationship with children can encourage open communication if something feels off.

Agent Barefoot added that traffickers are exploiting popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Discord, and even gaming platforms like Minecraft and Roblox to target children. To combat these threats, he recommends a gradual introduction to the internet for young users. “Children need to show they’re mature enough,” he noted. “Start slow, right? Give them a device that has very limited connectivity. As they demonstrate responsibility, perhaps increase their access until they reach young adulthood.”

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-888-373-7888. Individuals can also text 233733 for assistance.