PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — Nancy Brownie is a parent with young kids.
"Debilitating, where you feel powerless at times," said Brownie. "But it definitely keeps you on guard all of the time."
The mother of two knows Florida is third when it comes to the top states with human sex trafficking.
On Sunday, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office arrested 33-year-old Amber Peak. She's accused of human sex trafficking in connection with 16 and 17-year-old girls.
Lynne Barletta, founder of Catch The Wave Of Hope, offers help to sex trafficking victims.
"It's crucial for everyone to know that trafficking is prevalent in every community across the United States," said Barletta.
According to her arrest report, Peak was working as a prostitute through a smart phone application, and told the young girls they too could use it and make money from older men. Investigators said Peak would then keep some of the money the girls made.
A judge denied Peak bond.
Barletta said parents need to be knowledgeable and aware that young victims are targeted with technology they use every day.
"Our greatest enemy is fear and wanting to turn away and not know about this or stay in a bubble," said Barletta. "But it's so important for us to understand the methods, the way they approach children, the traffickers operate and how they keep them trauma bonded to themselves."
If you would like more information about Catch The Wave Of Hope in Stuart, there's a breakfast at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach on Feb. 22.
You can also learn more by clicking here.
