Hunting is a yearly fall ritual within South Dakota and across the country.

It is an outdoor pastime that highlights many of our state’s attributes. We have plentiful wildlife, fauna, and beautiful areas across the state. Unfortunately, there is a dark side to that pastime and other events that draw thousands of sportsmen here. That dark side involves another sort of prey…humans.

McKenzie Huska, Director of Marissa’s House and Outreach Services for Call to Freedom says, “Hunting season is a great opportunity to celebrate all that South Dakota has to offer, however it’s also an opportune time to become educated and aware of what human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation are and how to spot them. Many parts of South Dakota are “hot spots” for pheasant hunting, and we have folks traveling from both in and out of state to these areas. If you live in these areas, please get informed on the facts and resources that surround this horrific crime by not allowing this to happen in our beautiful state.”

Human traffickers capitalize upon the influx of people brought in by large events, such as concerts, conventions, or sporting events. The temporary surge in visitors can overwhelm local law enforcement and resources, providing traffickers with an opportunity to operate under the radar. In areas where hunting is a significant economic activity, the demand for services like lodging, food, and guides can rise sharply, and traffickers often exploit this demand by creating fake businesses or job offers that lead to exploitation. Hunting seasons within South Dakota have also been shown to lead to an increase in “pop-up” strip clubs, operating without licenses or oversight and serving as fronts for illegal activities, including sex trafficking. Argus Leader has previously reported the harrowing stories of women being exploited in these bars and clubs across rural South Dakota.

Many of the women working in these clubs are vulnerable individuals, often drawn from at-risk populations or lured by false promises of legitimate employment. Once inside, they may find themselves trapped in a cycle of exploitation, facing coercion and manipulation from those who run these establishments. The anonymity and transient nature of the hunting season create a perfect storm for illicit activities to flourish, including sex trafficking. Some women have been forced into performing in increasingly degrading circumstances, while others have been subjected to violence and intimidation.

South Dakota is targeted by traffickers who look for those who are vulnerable. And unfortunately, we have many who are at risk here. South Dakota has more Native American reservations than any other state. Over 40% of human trafficking victims in South Dakota are women and girls of Native descent.[1] Several risk factors, including high rates of poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse, contribute to rising incidences of trafficking within the state.

Criminals are keenly aware of the vulnerabilities within our communities. They actively seek out those in need and exploit these circumstances to create a bond with their victims. Once this connection is established, traffickers systematically isolate their victims from any potential support networks. By withholding essential needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, they manipulate and coerce their victims into actions they would not otherwise consider.

By shining a light on the dark corners of the hunting season’s aftermath, South Dakota communities can begin to dismantle these exploitative networks, creating a safer environment for everyone involved. Call to Freedom advises community members to trust their gut and report suspected trafficking. McKenzie Huska adds, “Please visit our website www.calltofreedom.org for more information and to learn how you can actively get involved with the fight against human trafficking.”

If you or someone you know needs Call to Freedom’s services, call or text 605-759-3565.

[1] Hilleary, Cecily. “Sex Traffickers Target Native American Children in South Dakota.” VOA, March 20, 2021. https://www.voanews.com/a/usa_sex-traffickers-target-native-american-children-south-dakota/6203518.html.