Irene, trafficking survivor
Growing up, Irene had it all—a
loving family and a healthy home.
But that all changed when she was introduced to addictive
substances. At just 19 years old,
she left home.
Irene entered the adult
entertainment industry by the
age of 24. Frequenting places like clubs and massage parlors meant
Irene was a target for pimps
and madams to lure her in even
deeper. It didn’t take long for a
pimp to get control of Irene.
He dropped her off on 51st Ave. and McDowell Road in Phoenix to make money for him. That night, Irene was arrested. She went to jail, unaware that she was a victim of sex-trafficking. She pleaded guilty to prostitution out of shame.
What felt like a nightmare turned out to be a blessing. When she was released from jail, Irene was required to report to Catholic Charities’ DIGNITY (Developing Individual Growth and New Independence Through Yourself) Diversion program. DIGNITY helps those who have been arrested for prostitution avoid re-offending.