Who are Vulnerable Populations?

 

There are certain groups of people who are more vulnerable to physical and sexual abuse or sexual exploitation than others. These groups are more vulnerable due to their inability to speak up and protect themselves.  Some examples are:

 

1. People of Low Income or Socio-Economic Status

2. Elderly Persons

3. Physically or Mentally Disabled Persons

4. People with Significant Learning Disabilities

5. Children, Teenagers, and College-Aged Adults

6. LGBTQ+ 

7. Native Americans

8. Homeless People

9. People with Severe Drug Addictions

10. Foreign People (especially when they cannot speak the native language)

11. Human Trafficking Victims

12. Animals

 

These groups are at a significantly higher risk of being victimized physically and sexually. It is important to recognize that this is a factor, and to act protectively on their behalf.

 

If you or someone you know is experiencing or has experienced this type of abuse, please contact your local CPS and Law Enforcement today.  

 

Or contact the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (800-422-4453).

 

It is typically mandatory under the law in any state, that these things be immediately reported to law enforcement once a disclosure of sexual abuse is made by any person.  Failure to do so and act protectively for a child may be a crime depending on the circumstances.  Even if you or someone else was the victim of sexual abuse as a child, and the victim is an adult today, you should still report it to the authorities.