New Report Finds Child Sex Trafficking Widespread in Foster Care Systems Washington, DC – April 8, 2026

A new national report from the First Star Institute  with the Wilbanks Child Endangerment and Sexual Exploitation Clinic of the University  of Georgia School of Law reveals a stark reality: child sex trafficking is not rare. It is a  

persistent and under-identified crisis within the systems designed to protect vulnerable  children. 

The report, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children: Attorney Insights and Identified  Training Needs, draws on insights from nearly 100 attorneys across 21  states representing children in foster care and the juvenile justice system. 

Key findings: 

• Nearly 9 in 10 attorneys report serving children impacted by trafficking, with  only 12% saying they rarely or never encounter these cases 

• 57% of attorneys say trafficking appears in their caseloads, while 31% say  they often or always serve affected youth 

• 43% report that trafficking cases are increasing, while most others say the  problem remains consistently high 

• 80% of attorneys say criminalization of victims is a major challenge,  worsening trauma and limiting recovery 

• 78% report that the vast majority of their clients have experienced  significant trauma, highlighting extreme vulnerability 

• 66% say child sex trafficking is a serious national issue, and none say it is  not a problem 

• Nearly half say they lack adequate knowledge of available services, pointing  to major gaps in support systems 

“These findings confirm what many on the front lines already see,” said Noy Davis,  Vice President of Operations at First Star Institute. “Child sex trafficking is not  isolated. It is showing up regularly in cases, and too many children are being missed.” 

Children in foster care face heightened risk due to instability, prior trauma, and unmet  needs. Traffickers exploit these vulnerabilities through grooming tactics that often go  undetected. 

Despite increased public awareness, the report finds that systemic gaps continue to  limit early identification and effective intervention. Many victims remain unseen and  unsupported. 

The findings are based on a survey of 94 attorneys, providing a nationwide snapshot of  how trafficking is impacting children already involved in protective systems.

The report outlines several urgent priorities: 

• Standardized screening protocols 

• Increased access to specialized placements and trauma-informed care • Stronger coordination between child welfare and juvenile justice systems • Expanded training for attorneys and frontline professionals 

Without meaningful reform, children already known to these systems will continue to be  at risk. 

For media inquiries or to request the full report, contact: Noy Davis, First Star Institute noy@firststarinstitute.org or Emma Hetherington https://cease.law.uga.edu/