Public Meeting on Sex Trafficking Planned Thursday

Parents and caretakers of underage girls are encouraged to attend a public meeting Thursday in Murrieta about the risks of sex trafficking.

Attendees will learn what puts a girl “at-risk,” and the warning signs to protect her from being manipulated by sexual predators.

Officials say the rise of the internet and increased use of technology is making it easier for pimps to befriend, exploit, threaten and eventually control young girls into the commercial sex trade.  

According to the Department of Justice, the average age of entry into prostitution is 12 to 14 years old.  

The public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 17, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Murrieta City Hall, 1 Town Square, Murrieta.

The keynote speaker will be Gabriela Baeza of the Student Safety & Well-Being Division of the San Diego County Office of Education.

Leaders across Southwest Riverside County have formed the Regional Family, Youth and Health Task Force committed to provide youth, parents and families information and resources to better understand and cope with issues faced in today's society.