Podcast Summary: Episode 368 - Nic McKinley

Title: Cleared Hot
Host: Andy Stumpf
Guest: Nic McKinley
Release Date: January 6, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 368 of "Cleared Hot," host Andy Stumpf welcomes repeat guest Nic McKinley, CEO of Deliver Fund, an anti-human trafficking organization based in Montana. This episode delves deep into the pervasive issue of human trafficking, expanding the conversation beyond the commonly addressed aspects of sexual exploitation of women to include the often-overlooked trafficking of young boys.

2. Guest Introduction: Nic McKinley and Deliver Fund

Andy introduces Nic McKinley, highlighting his extensive experience in the fight against human trafficking. Deliver Fund operates out of Montana, working closely with law enforcement and leveraging technology to combat trafficking across various states.

Nic McKinley [05:23]: "Everything we do at Deliver Fund is free for law enforcement. It's a lot of tech and it's hard to keep it funded."

3. Shifting Focus: Human Trafficking Beyond Women

The discussion begins with a reflection on the common misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, predominantly associated with the exploitation of women. Nic emphasizes that trafficking occurs daily across all states and often remains invisible to the public eye.

Nic McKinley [99:16]: "We've known that is happening. We've put information out about that. The FBI has put information out about that. That's fine. A couple of years ago we had a story called that we call the Noah Story that happened at Deliver Fund."

4. Trafficking of Young Boys: An Overlooked Crisis

Nic sheds light on the alarming rise in trafficking cases involving young boys. Unlike young girls, who are increasingly educated about the dangers of online exploitation, young boys are not receiving the same level of awareness, making them prime targets for traffickers.

Nic McKinley [100:06]: "Nation states getting involved in the trafficking of children in the United States of America? That is happening right now."

5. Tactics and Challenges in Fighting Trafficking

The conversation delves into the sophisticated tactics employed by traffickers, including the use of spoofed online accounts to gain trust and exploit young individuals. Nic provides real-life examples of cases handled by Deliver Fund, illustrating the complexity and stealth of modern trafficking operations.

Nic McKinley [103:15]: "The traditional template was just a good looking younger young boy, but who's older than the 12-year-old girl they're targeting."

6. Technological Evolution and Its Impact

Nic discusses how advancements in technology have both aided traffickers and provided new tools for organizations like Deliver Fund to combat trafficking. The proliferation of social media and communication platforms has made it easier for traffickers to locate and exploit vulnerable youth.

Nic McKinley [137:04]: "People talk about, like, when do you think World War III is going to start? I think we're already in it."

7. Nation-State Involvement and Organized Crime Links

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the involvement of nation-states, particularly China, in facilitating human trafficking within the United States. Nic speculates on the motives behind such operations, suggesting strategic long-term goals to destabilize communities.

Nic McKinley [105:55]: "So, so when you look at it through that lens, it's like, oh, well, there's going to be people who are involved and then there's probably people who were involved in the Diddy thing who, who didn't say anything and now are very embarrassed."

8. The Role of Deliver Fund and Success Stories

Deliver Fund's contributions to identifying and rescuing trafficking victims are highlighted through various case studies. Nic recounts successful interventions where technology and strategic partnerships led to the safe rescue of victims and the prosecution of traffickers.

Nic McKinley [107:02]: "The FBI never should have allowed that to happen. They did. That's on FBI leadership."

9. Advice for Parents and Preventative Measures

Nic offers actionable advice for parents to protect their children from online exploitation. Emphasizing open communication, awareness of online interactions, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities, he outlines strategies to mitigate the risks of trafficking.

Nic McKinley [120:02]: "Make sure that you give all of the evidence and definitely the photos that your child took to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and to obviously law enforcement."

10. Conclusion and How to Support Deliver Fund

Andy and Nic conclude the episode by reiterating the critical role of community awareness and support in the fight against human trafficking. Nic urges listeners to support Deliver Fund through donations, emphasizing that all contributions directly aid in their mission to rescue and rehabilitate trafficking victims.

Nic McKinley [145:48]: "Best way to support Deliver Fund is deliverfund.org donate. Everything we do is free for law enforcement."

Notable Quotes

• Nic McKinley [99:16]: "We've had a nation state. Well I'll say it's China who is using these massage parlors in rural America to distribute."

• Nic McKinley [100:06]: "That is happening right now."

• Nic McKinley [137:04]: "People talk about, like, when do you think World War III is going to start? I think we're already in it."

• Nic McKinley [145:48]: "Best way to support Deliver Fund is deliverfund.org donate."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Cleared Hot" serves as a crucial reminder of the evolving landscape of human trafficking and the necessity for comprehensive strategies to combat it. Nic McKinley's insights shed light on lesser-known facets of trafficking, urging society to broaden its focus and reinforce protective measures for all vulnerable populations.

For more information or to support Deliver Fund, visit deliverfund.org.