Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Trafficked: The Terrifying True Story of a British Girl Forced into the Sex Trade, by Sophie Hayes

Trafficked: The Terrifying True Story of a British Girl Forced into the Sex Trade, by Sophie Hayes Sophie Hayes had known her friend Kas for years. He was there for her when her boyfriend left her, and was sweet and kind. Sophie didn’t hesitate to accompany Kas to Italy for a long weekend holiday; after all, their trip to Spain had been delightful. But once there, Kas changed. He stopped being the gentle man Sophie loved and overnight became an abusive monster. Sophie was forced to commit unspeakable acts, selling her body to pay Kas’ debts to drug dealers. Sophie became lost in the world of human trafficking – though as a well-educated, middle-class girl from the suburbs she was not the usual “prey.” She was forced to accompany Kas to Paris where the money was better and then back to Italy where Kas could control her better. Sophie was forced to depend on Kas for food and shelter, but was beaten and humiliated daily. She had no money, was cut off from family and friends, and had no way to escape. Trafficked is a powerful, true story about trust, humiliation, and the strength to endure the horror of the worst kind of betrayal. Sophie's story is especially important because it is not unique. Human trafficking can and does happen in communities everywhere, and few victims are able to break free. Though Sophie was rescued, her trafficker continues to pursue her, as she works to end the suffering of others. Highly recommended.