Safety and security
Learn more on how Sound Transit works to keep you safe and where to report issues when they arise.

Anti-human trafficking

Human trafficking is a crime that involves coercion into forced labor or the sex trade. Victims can be of any race, age, or gender. Sound Transit is committed to combating human trafficking through various initiatives and resources. This page includes information on the warning signs of human trafficking, questions to ask potential victims, who to contact, and crisis resources.

Make the call, save lives

Make the call if you notice riders or community members at stations showing any of the following warning signs:

  • Alone, scared, and/or crying.
  • Fearful or anxious behavior.
  • Not allowed to speak for themselves (a third party may insist on being present or translating).
  • Not in possession of own ticket.
  • Lacks control over their decisions, movements, identification, or money.
  • Has few personal possessions.
  • Someone is watching or following them.
  • Avoids eye contact.
  • Appears malnourished.
  • Shows signs of neglect, physical or sexual abuse.
  • Claims to be just visiting and is unable to say where they are staying, or does not know what city they are in.
  • Talks about the local sex scene.
  • Seems to have lost sense of time.
  • Has numerous inconsistencies in their story.
  • Signs of branding or tattooing (often of trafficker’s name).

If you can safely talk to the potential victim, you could ask the following questions:

  • Are you OK?
  • Can you leave your job if you want to? Can you come and go as you please?
  • Have you been hurt or threatened if you tried to leave?
  • Has anyone threatened your family?
  • Do you live with your employer?
  • Where do you sleep and eat?
  • Are you in debt to your employer?
  • Do you have your passport/identification? Who has it?

Free and confidential support for people in distress:

  • Crisis Help: 211
    • 24/7 hotline
    • Provides immediate support and links to resources and services across Washington.
  • National Human Trafficking Hotline: (888) 373-7888
    • 24/7 hotline
    • Help for people being forced or coerced into work.
  • Human Trafficking Services: watraffickinghelp.com
    • List of anti-human trafficking services by type and location.
  • Safe Place: (800) 422-TEEN or text their location and “SAFE” to 44357
    • Monday–Friday; 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
    • Quickly connects youth (ages 12-17) in King and Snohomish counties to representatives who can provide a safe place or other services.
  • Rebuilding Hope: (855) 757-7273
    • 24/7 hotline
    • Pierce and Kitsap County crisis line for victims of sexual assault or abuse.
  • REST: (206) 451-7378
    • 24/7 hotline
    • Provides case management, housing, and mentorship for prostituted people.