Breaking the Silence: Raising Awareness for Teen Dating Violence
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This issue affects millions of young people every day. Teen dating violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and digital abuse.
Unfortunately, some teens may not recognize the abuse, or they may be too afraid to speak out. It is crucial for teens to recognize the warning signs of abuse in their relationships. Some red flags include extreme jealousy or insecurity, belittling or put-downs, pressure for sexual activity, and threats of harm.
There are many ways for teens to protect themselves if they experience dating violence. Setting boundaries, trusting their instincts, and having a safety plan are essential steps. It is also important to know when to seek help. Teens should talk to a trusted adult—such as a parent, teacher, or counselor—if they feel unsafe. They can also reach out to a local domestic violence hotline or law enforcement for support.
Every teen deserves a healthy, respectful relationship. By speaking up and supporting one another, we can break the cycle of abuse and create a future where love is safe and empowering.
For more information, visit millionformillion.org.
3 FAQs About Illicit Massage Businesses
One of the most well-known forms of human trafficking is the selling of commercial sex within illicit massage businesses (IMBs). It is the second most common type of trafficking reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline1, and most Houstonians can find an IMB within a short driving distance of their home, school, or place of employment.
It’s important to remember that most massage businesses in America are not illicit – they employ perfectly legal operations and provide safe and effective treatment for their clientele. We must also remember that not all massage workers at an IMB provide sexual services, and many regular customers would never know that some clients in the next room are paying for sex.
But in our community outreach efforts, our team here at Crime Stoppers of Houston is constantly asked about trafficking by concerned neighbors, and this unfortunate reality is very much alive in our city.
We have found that many of our community members share common questions about the nature of trafficking and illicit massage businesses within our city:
How can you tell if a massage parlor is legitimate or not?
This is by far one of the most common questions our team gets. A few signs that a massage business may be facilitating human trafficking include:
- Windows that are completely covered or blacked out
- Customers must buzz in to enter the business
- They refuse to admit or serve female customers
- Listed rates for massages are lower than the industry standard
- You are asked to pay for massage services before receiving treatment
- There are no intake forms you are required to complete prior to receiving treatment
The presence of one or more of these indicators could be a sign that a business is involved in the sale of commercial sex.
Why don’t victims just leave?
Victim workers in these establishments are primarily controlled through debt bondage, blackmail, intense psychological manipulation, and/or physical violence. Almost every aspect of their life is controlled — where they live, what they eat, where they go, what they look like, and who they are allowed to talk to.
On top of that, many victims are not U.S. citizens, so they may have cultural and language barriers, fear law enforcement, and/or have no or limited knowledge of their rights, which can make it incredibly difficult for them to seek support.
For others, working in an IMB is the only way they are able to provide for themselves, their children, and family members they may have abroad. Many victim workers simply cannot afford to jeopardize their situation, no matter how inhumane and dangerous it might be.
Why don’t the police just shut them down?
Permanently shutting down an illicit massage business is a complicated process. Police operations like raids and undercover stings can result in trafficking victims being arrested and booked on prostitution charges, while the actual trafficker evades any legal consequences. Additionally, most of these businesses are part of much larger organized crime networks, and if one location is closed, traffickers will simply shift the victims to another.
Building a solid case that will remove traffickers from society in the long term takes time, resources, and hard work. As our law enforcement partners work to gather evidence and pursue criminal charges, there are other steps regular citizens can take to curb trafficking in our communities.
Business owners are required to adhere to various codes and regulations in order to operate legally, but many IMBs may not be following these requirements and may be vulnerable to civil penalties, including fines and potential closures.
We encourage citizen involvement, particularly in supporting victims, but uninformed action, however well-intentioned, can do more harm than good. Avoid entering massage parlors you suspect may be IMBs, attempting to talk with potential victims, or taking actions designed to draw attention to a particular business, like a protest. These actions can alert traffickers and cause them to move their operation before victims can be identified and helped.
If you suspect that a location is an IMB and facilitating human trafficking, report a tip to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.
- https://polarisproject.org/blog/2018/05/is-there-massage-parlor-trafficking-in-my-community/
Crime Stoppers of Houston Raises Over $2 Million Dollars at Raise ‘Em Up for Texas Annual Gala
The theme of the Crime Stoppers of Houston’s annual gala, “Raise ‘Em Up for Texas”, was all about big hats, big hearts, and grand celebration of wins. Chaired by dynamic couples Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale-Mackey and Matt Mackey, along with Michelle and Jonathan Zadok, the event took place on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at The Revaire and raised over $2 million to support Crime Stoppers’ mission to combat crime and keep children across Texas safe through its Safe School Institute. The event soared to new heights thanks to strategic chairs, Vanessa Ames and Jordan Seff, whose leadership and wide-ranging vision created an unforgettable evening for all.
The lavish celebration united over 400 generous supporters, community advocates, elected officials, and law enforcement from across the state for a lively Texas-themed party which kicked off with an energetic happy hour, offering guests opportunities to support the night’s exciting silent auction and raffle.
Houston Media Icon Dave Ward welcomed guests into the main ballroom with pre-recorded messages, followed by an entertaining opening from emcee and auctioneer Johnny Bravo, including a message from Houston Mayor John Whitmire who thanked Crime Stoppers for its steadfast support to help keep our city safe. Before dinner, Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious spoke about the important mission of Crime Stoppers, offering insights on the organization’s unique safety programs and highlighting the work of the Safe School Institute, which tirelessly strives to keep schools across Texas safe.
Guests were entertained by the band Nobody’s Fool while savoring a delicious dinner featuring steaks donated by Ben Berg and the Berg Hospitality Group.
The action-packed program continued with remarks from special guest Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor and President of the University of Houston, who joined to celebrate the community efforts of Crime Stoppers. In her speech, she highlighted a campus incident where many lives were potentially saved when an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers helped prevent a mass shooting.
The festivities continued with a thrilling live auction by Johnny Bravo, designed to raise funds in support of the Crime Stoppers mission. Then, special guest and recent Stratford High School graduate Seven “Shamir” Francis shared his story reflected of experiences faced by millions of teenagers. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Crime Stoppers, highlighting how it serves as a counterbalance to the serious challenges kids face today by providing positive messaging and resources to help them make safer choices regardless of their circumstances.
Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious continued the evening by introducing the McIngvale Family Humanitarian Award, named in honor of the McIngvale Family for their outstanding benevolent efforts and support to the community during times of crisis, as well as their investment in the work of Crime Stoppers. Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale-Mackey and ‘Mattress Mack’ Jim McIngvale joined Rania on stage to present the inaugural award to The John M. O’Quinn Foundation, represented by Board of Trustees Chairman Rob Wilson. This award recognized the foundation’s support of the Safe School Institute through a historic $500,000 gift, marking a significant first step in helping Crime Stoppers provide safety resources to children across Texas. Immediately afterward, Crime Stoppers debuted a video announcing its 2025 Million for Million campaign, which aims to reach one million students with safety resources. To help achieve this goal, Johnny Bravo led a Paddles Up call for donations, resulting in an impressive additional amount of $500,000 raised.
To help celebrate this huge accomplishment, Oscar award-winning actor and Crime Stoppers friend Matthew McConaughey sent a special video message.
The evening wrapped up with Zadok Jewelers announcing Oscar Martinez as the lucky winner of the ring raffle, followed by some fun country dancing!
Thursday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Entertainment Sponsor Inscription Capital/Patrick Keller; Provisions Sponsor Berg Hospitality Group; Auction Sponsor Connectivity Source/Scott and Lindsay Aronstein, Printing Sponsor Kelley Stephen Lubanko, Water Bottle Sponsor Erin Stetzer Homes, Happy Hour Sponsor Marfa Spirit Company, Valet Sponsor Porsche River Oaks and Porsche West Houston; President Sponsor C. James & Carole Walter Looke Family Fund; Governor Sponsor Seff and Ames Family; Mayor Sponsors Brigitte Kalai, Alicia Smith, Susan Boggio, Amerapex, Innovative Legal Solutions, Jane Johnstone – in Memory of the Honorable Mike McSpadden, Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, The McIngvale Family, Hildebrand Foundation and Zadok Jewelers; and Commissioner Sponsors Charlie and Melissa Weldon, Deborah and William Walker, Harris County District Attorney’s Office, Kevin and Brooke Lee and Natalie and Steven Mohtashami, Meg and Dick Weekley.
Additional supporters include Dylan and Jordan Seff, Chuck and Vanessa Ames, Eric Elder, Caroline and Matthew Monday, John Eddie and Sheridan Williams, Brooke and Kevin Lee, June and Steve Barth, Laura and Dave Ward, Dana Barton and Robert Clay, Charlie and Melissa Weldon, Laura and Ned Davenport, Natalie and Steve Mohtashami, Shane Treleaven, and Jillian and Yuri Waldo.
Notable guests include United States Senator Ted Cruz, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, City Council Member Willie Davis, Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz, and Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen.
Visit www.crime-stoppers.org for additional information on Crime Stopper’s programs, resources and events.
Halloween Safety
Halloween is a time of magic and fun, but it also brings certain risks that parents need to be aware of. With millions of children out trick-or-treating each year, the potential for accidents and dangerous incidents increases. According to the National Safety Council, Halloween is one of the deadliest days of the year for pedestrians, with children being particularly vulnerable—children are twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween compared to other days. Additionally, the rise of fentanyl-laced candy has become a concerning trend. Law enforcement agencies have warned that counterfeit candy and drugs can end up in Halloween treats, posing a severe risk to unsuspecting children. Parents must teach their kids to be vigilant about the treats they accept and to avoid any that look suspicious or come from unknown sources.
Halloween sees a significant increase in pedestrian traffic. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 71% of fatal crashes involving pedestrians occur in the dark, which is why costume safety is crucial. Visibility matters, as nearly 30% of pedestrian fatalities on Halloween involve children aged 4 to 15. Choose bright, reflective costumes or add glow sticks to enhance visibility. Additionally, opt for costumes made from non-flammable materials, as the U.S. Fire Administration reports that Halloween-related fires are common. Always accompany young children while trick-or-treating and set rules for older kids to stick to well-lit areas. Encourage your children to remain mindful of their surroundings, look both ways before crossing streets, and stay on sidewalks whenever possible.
If your child is attending a Halloween party, ensure you know the host and the location. A survey by the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that nearly 3,000 injuries occur each Halloween at parties, often due to falls or alcohol-related incidents. It’s essential to discuss the dangers of underage drinking and substance use with your teens, as parties can sometimes lead to risky behavior. Encourage your child to use the buddy system, promoting group attendance and urging them to stay with friends throughout the event for added safety.
Finally, having an emergency preparedness plan is vital. Discuss what to do in case of an emergency and ensure your child has your contact information and knows how to reach you. Keeping a first aid kit handy is also a good idea for minor injuries, as Halloween often leads to scraped knees and other minor accidents.
Halloween can be a fun time filled with creativity and excitement, but being aware of the associated risks is crucial. By following these safety tips and staying informed, you can help protect your children from potential dangers while allowing them to enjoy the festivities. Let’s make this Halloween memorable for all the right reasons—stay safe and have fun!
Traveling with Peace of Mind this Summer!
In recent months, five Americans, who were on separate vacations in the Turks and Caicos Islands, were arrested when bullets were discovered in their luggage during routine security checks. While the tourists claimed that the bullets were left in their bags accidentally and had no malicious intent, the local authorities have taken the matter seriously. Turks and Caicos has stringent gun control laws, and the possession of ammunition without proper authorization is a serious offense. This is an important reminder for everyone as we set off to travel this Summer!
Traveling should be an exciting adventure, whether you’re exploring a new city, hiking through a national park, or relaxing on a tropical beach. However, safety should always be a priority. From securing your home while you’re away to staying vigilant on your trip and paying attention to local laws, here are some essential tips to ensure a worry-free journey.
- Avoid Posting in Real-Time on Social Media
DON’T: Posting in real-time on social media not only announces your current location to the world, potentially attracting unwanted attention, but also informs the world that your home is likely empty and a great target for theft. Innocent features like geotagging on Instagram stories can make your location public to people beyond your followers. Similarly, posts in Facebook groups can sometimes be visible to a wider audience than intended.
DO: A general rule of thumb is to wait until you’ve left the destination to start sharing your experiences. An even safer option than posting in real-time is to wait until you get home to post about your travels!
- Research Local Scams
DON’T: Tourist destinations can attract scammers. Looking like a tourist can make you an even larger target for scams. Avoid flashy jewelry and eccentric clothes to minimize attracting attention, and don’t carry items you be devastated to lose. Don’t carry all your cash at once or keep all your money and cards in the same location.
DO: Researching local scams in addition to general travel scams can help you know what to look out for and how to protect yourself from falling victim. A quick Google search combining your destination and the word “scams” can provide valuable insights into common tricks and tactics. Keep your most valuable items like your phone, credit cards, and passport safe. Some people prefer to wear money belts, while others use jackets with inside pockets for easy access and security. Most of all, pay attention to your surroundings. Most petty thefts and scams occur while people are distracted. Remember, if something feels too good to be true, it probably is.
- Understand Local Laws and Regulations
Don’t: Different countries have different laws. Permissible actions at home, like carrying ammunition (as in the cases of the five Americans in Turks and Caicos), certain swear words, or even feeding local wildlife, might be illegal abroad. Always check local regulations before you go. Being unaware of local laws and regulations is not an excuse, and you may subject yourself to local fines, or even jail time if you do not abide by local laws and regulations.
Do: Always check local regulations before you travel. If you travel with medication, ensure it’s allowed in your destination. Some countries have strict rules about what can be brought across their borders. Be sure to carry a printed document including all contact information you may need in case of emergency. This document should include your emergency contacts, the phone number of the embassy in the country you are traveling, medical and insurance information, etc. Having this document with you at all times could be the thing that keeps you safe in a moment of crisis.
So what happened to those Americans arrested in Turks and Caicos?
Two of the five Americans have already received their punishment for their respective offenses:
- Bryan Hagerich received a sentence of a $6,700 fine and no time serviced.
- Tyler Wenrich received a sentence of 3-weeks, which have already been served, and a fine of $9,000
- Ryan Watson, Sharitta Grier, and Michael Lee Evans are all still awaiting their sentences.
Traveling should be an enjoyable and enriching experience. By following these safety tips, you can protect yourself from potential risks and focus on making the most of your journey. Always stay informed, vigilant, and prepared, and you’ll be able to travel with peace of mind. Safe travels!