The state of Maryland’s geographical positioning along the I-95 corridor, I-270, and I-70, coupled with the presence of international airports, renders it an ideal hub within the trafficking circuit (Maryland Human Trafficking Task Force, 2022).  The proximity to truck stops further exacerbates the issue, providing traffickers with convenient venues for exploitation. 

Moreover, Maryland’s demographic landscape encompasses multiple vulnerable populations, such as youth engaged in the child welfare system, unaccompanied minors, domestic servants, and agricultural workers. This convergence of factors underscores the urgent need for targeted prevention strategies, and ultimately systemic reforms to combat child trafficking within the state. 

Given Maryland’s unique vulnerabilities and position within trafficking networks, addressing these challenges is crucial to protecting children.

In 2024, Araminta commissioned a review by The Mosaic Group to pinpoint the counties and areas in Maryland with the most risk factors for trafficking.

The findings of that study can be reviewed here.