New Houston data shows rising concerns about child exploitation and persistent domestic violence, with experts warning that many cases remain hidden.
HOUSTON — New data presented at Houston City Hall highlights a troubling reality: while some metrics show improvement, child exploitation and domestic violence continue to impact thousands of families — often in ways that remain hidden.
City leaders and advocates say child exploitation, particularly sex trafficking, is one of the most difficult crimes to measure, leaving gaps in understanding the true scope of the problem.
“Children are sitting in classrooms today who are being trafficked and don’t even know it,” said Denise Mears, founder of Project Protect Our Children.
Mears told council members that trafficking often happens through relationships built online, with predators targeting children through social media and gaming platforms. In many cases, victims don’t recognize the exploitation or know how to seek help.
Data reflects a growing concern. Nationwide cyber tip reports related to child exploitation surged after new federal reporting requirements, jumping from 8,480 reports in 2023 to more than 105,000 after the first full year of enforcement — a dramatic increase experts say reflects both rising activity and improved detection.
Still, Mears emphasized the numbers only scratch the surface.
“Trafficking is a hidden crime. Underreporting is the norm,” she said, noting there is no single system tracking cases across law enforcement, schools, and health agencies.
Local law enforcement data shows dozens of victims are identified in Houston each year, many involving juveniles. Advocates say awareness and prevention remain critical, especially as grooming can happen quickly — sometimes within weeks of initial online contact.
City leaders say sharing this data helps guide policy decisions, from supporting police investigations to funding prevention programs in schools.
Councilmember Amy Peck said community awareness is key.
“If you see something questionable, reach out… there are many resources available,” she said.
Domestic violence context
The discussion also highlighted the ongoing impact of domestic violence across Houston and Texas.
According to data presented to the Public Safety Committee, nearly 250,000 Texas families experience domestic violence each year. In Houston alone, tens of thousands of cases are reported annually, including 46,396 incidents investigated in 2025.
Advocates say those numbers likely underestimate the true scale, as many cases go unreported. Domestic violence is often a pattern of power and control, with victims facing barriers such as fear, financial dependence, and threats.
Experts also warn of escalating danger. The presence of a gun increases the risk of homicide by 500%, and prior strangulation significantly raises the likelihood of a deadly outcome.
Officials say both domestic violence and child exploitation require a coordinated response — combining law enforcement, community outreach, and education — to better protect vulnerable families.
“This is about prevention and awareness,” Mears said. “Everyone has a role to play.”
For resources from the Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse program, visit its website.
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