The 2024 Youth Screenings Report explores how trafficking screening tools, particularly the Commercial Sexual Exploitation-Identification Tool (CSE-IT), have been used across Texas and Louisiana to identify youth at risk of commercial sexual exploitation. Developed in partnership with agencies and powered by the Lighthouse data platform, this analysis offers deep insights into trends, demographics, and risk indicators from over 180,000 screenings between 2016 and 2024.

In Texas, over 174,000 screenings were conducted, with nearly 10% resulting in a “Clear Concern” designation for sex trafficking. In Louisiana, 6,829 screenings yielded an 18.3% Clear Concern rate, reflecting the narrower but more targeted implementation. Juvenile Probation Departments (JPDs) in Texas accounted for the majority of screenings, but CSEY agencies, Residential Direct Service Agencies, and DFPS had the highest proportion of Clear Concern results—some over 35%.

Clear Concern screenings typically involved youth ages 15–16, and 77.6% were female. Notably, LGBTQ+ youth and those with disabilities had significantly higher Clear Concern rates, though these populations are often under-identified due to gaps in data collection. Racial disparities also emerged: in Texas, African American and White youth were overrepresented in Clear Concerns, while in Louisiana, Hispanic and White youth were more likely to score Clear Concern compared to their overall screening rates.

Five common indicators appeared in over 95% of Clear Concern cases, including running away, CPS involvement, sexual abuse history, juvenile justice contact, and risk-taking behavior. Yet, inconsistency in screening protocols and limited training—especially in Louisiana—remain barriers to broader identification.

Recommendations include mandating universal screenings, standardizing protocols, expanding training (especially in schools and medical settings), and tailoring interventions by age, gender identity, and risk profile. A core message is clear: consistent, targeted screening is essential to uncover hidden trafficking and guide effective, early interventions.