The Middlesex TRACE (Team Response Against Child Exploitation) Program is a collaborative response to the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) in Middlesex County. The program was created to encourage CSEC-involved youth to feel safe, break ties with their exploiter, and seize opportunities to regain control of their lives and futures.
Our TRACE Coordinator will promptly bring together a multidisciplinary team (MDT) when there is a concern or report of CSEC. Given the complex histories of these youth, the MDT can include child protection agencies, outside providers, medical professionals, survivor mentorship program representatives, multiple jurisdictions, as well as local, state, and federal law enforcement authorities. As indicated, our TRACE Coordinator will conduct a forensic interview and work with the MDT to assess risk and safety, and ensure the youth has access to medical and mental health care, substance abuse treatment, mentors, and advocates.
By fostering creativity in our MDT response, the TRACE Program strives to enhance our efforts to identify and hold those who sexually exploit and traffic youth accountable.
Did you know:
11-13 years old = the average age of entry for boys and transgender youth into the commercial sex industry
12-14 years old = the average age of entry for girls into the commercial sex industry
1 in 3 teens will be sexually exploited within 48 hours of running away