Human trafficking: A network of crime hidden across a vast American landscape

When Bekah Charleston was first targeted as a human trafficking victim, there were no whips, chains or white vans — just a kind face and a fake name who offered her a safe place to stay.

As a 17-year-old Texas runaway, Charleston thought she was finding safe haven from drug dealers she had gotten involved with — at least until the exploitation began. She recalled fantasizing about suicide every day, sure that she would never make it to 21.