'I Didn't Feel Like I Had Any Choice' - Wendy's Trafficking Story

Summary

Wendy Barnes recounts her harrowing journey as a human trafficking survivor, detailing her childhood abuse, manipulation into prostitution, and the 13-year ordeal that followed. Her story underscores the importance of understanding and compassion in aiding survivors, as she eventually found hope and healing through education, support, and sharing her experiences to help others.

Takeaways

• 😢 Wendy Barnes is a survivor of human trafficking who experienced abuse from her stepfather at a young age.
• 🏠 After a court case, Wendy's stepfather received a light punishment, and she was moved back in with him, which led to ongoing abuse.
• 👶 At 15, Wendy became pregnant and had a child with a boyfriend who later manipulated her into prostitution to support their child.
• 💔 Wendy was coerced into prostitution to provide for her daughter, showing the manipulative tactics used by her boyfriend to control her.
• 🚔 After 13 years, Wendy was arrested and charged with crimes related to prostitution, highlighting the victim-blaming aspect of the justice system.
• 📚 While in prison, Wendy pursued education and worked towards bettering herself, demonstrating resilience and a desire for change.
• 👪 Upon release, Wendy fought for and regained custody of one of her children, showing her determination to rebuild her life and family.
• 📖 Wendy wrote a book about her experiences to raise awareness and help others understand the complexities of human trafficking.
• 🌟 She emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion in helping survivors of trafficking and abuse.
• ❤️ Wendy's story offers hope to others in similar situations and encourages the spread of kindness and support for those who feel unloved.

Q & A

How old was Wendy when she first experienced abuse?

Wendy was 11 years old when she first experienced abuse from her stepfather.

What was the outcome of the court case involving Wendy's stepfather?

The stepfather took a plea deal, received three months of counseling as punishment, and the case was then closed.

Why did Wendy's mother move her back in with her stepfather?

Wendy's mother moved her back in with her stepfather mostly for financial reasons.

How did Wendy meet Greg, and what was their initial interaction like?

Wendy met Greg at a swimming pool party when a neighbor girl introduced them. Greg was attentive and asked for her number, which he later used to call her.

What was Greg's plan to help Wendy and her daughter Latasha move out of her mother's house?

Greg's plan was for Wendy and Latasha to move into a shelter in downtown Seattle to be considered emancipated, then apply for welfare, get an apartment, and live independently.

How did Greg exploit Wendy's situation at the shelter?

Greg exploited Wendy's situation by forcing her into prostitution to earn money for their daughter's diapers and formula, claiming it was the only way to support them.

How long was Wendy involved in Greg's prostitution ring?

Wendy was involved in Greg's prostitution ring for 13 years.

What was the turning point that led to Greg's arrest and Wendy's imprisonment?

The turning point was when the SWAT team raided their house, leading to Greg's arrest and Wendy being charged with felony crimes related to promoting prostitution.

What was the judge's initial stance on Wendy's ability to parent her children?

The judge initially believed Wendy to be an unfit parent and stated that she would never have authority over her children again.

How did Wendy eventually regain custody of one of her children?

After serving her sentence, attending college, and impressing her parole officers and therapists, Wendy was able to regain custody of her middle child, Gregory.

What are the two main reasons Wendy shares her story publicly?

Wendy shares her story to help others understand the mindset and situation of human trafficking victims to foster compassion, and to give hope to others that life can improve after such experiences.