It’s safety first when working on the streets
(4 of 5) “When we started going out, I was shaking. I was nervous. I was scared. You’re dealing with very dangerous people. You’re talking about drug dealers and gang members. These trafficked girls represent their money. I didn’t know what to expect. But the more we were out there and the better they got to know us, the more we were accepted. Even the pimps were like, oh, it’s those ladies who are helping our girls. Some of them don’t like us, but they’ve learned to stay away from us.
“The streets are very unpredictable. You just never know what could happen at any given moment. So we always have to be on our toes. We always have to be hyper aware of our surroundings.
“My husband went out there with us one time, and he was blown away with what he saw. He was like, ‘This is dangerous. This is scary. I can’t believe this is what you’re doing.’ But he’s kind of calmed down. Really, he’s my biggest supporter. I’m lucky to have someone like him. Now, before I walk out the door, he’s checking: ‘Do you have your guns on you? Are you fully loaded? Do you have your extra magazines?’ He’s checking to make sure I’m prepared. That if something happens, I can defend myself.
“It’s awful to see these children out there being trafficked. We’ve recovered girls as young as 12 years old. So while this can be considered dangerous work, it’s worth it. If we can get them off the streets and back to their families, or on a path to a new, safe life, it’s definitely worth it.”
— Betty Simons
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