Lauren Steele - FOUND SAFE!
Lauren Steele Has Been Found Safe
In December, we shared the story of Lauren Steele, a 36-year-old survivor of human trafficking who disappeared while traveling from Philadelphia to Las Vegas. Lauren was supposed to be coming to Las Vegas for treatment related to her trafficking experience, but along the way, communication with her family stopped.
Her phone was later located in Las Vegas. Lauren was not.
For weeks, her loved ones searched for answers, holding onto hope while facing the fear that comes with not knowing where someone is or whether they’re safe. Stories like Lauren’s are never easy to tell, but they matter — especially when they involve survivors who are already navigating layers of trauma and vulnerability.
We are relieved and grateful to share that the Pennsylvania State Police have confirmed that Lauren Steele has been found safe.
No additional details about her whereabouts or what happened have been made public, and that’s exactly how it should be. Lauren does not owe the public an explanation. Her safety is what matters — not the circumstances, not the speculation, and not the questions that so often follow cases like this.
When someone goes missing, especially a survivor of human trafficking, the risks are real and immediate. These cases often highlight how easily people can fall through the cracks, even when they are actively seeking help or care.
Lauren’s safe return is a reminder that missing persons cases do not always end in tragedy — and that families, advocates, and communities deserve to hear that good news when it comes.
Out of respect for Lauren and her loved ones, we have updated our previous episode to remove discussion of her disappearance. We believe strongly that once someone is found safe, the priority should shift from public awareness to privacy and healing.
Survivors of trafficking and exploitation face ongoing challenges long after the abuse ends. Seeking treatment, relocating, or simply trying to rebuild stability can carry risks that most people never have to consider.
We hope Lauren now has the time, space, and support she needs — free from public scrutiny — to continue her healing journey.
To Lauren, her family, and everyone who worked to bring her home: we are thinking of you, and we wish you peace.
Co-Host
Since her early teen years, Shaun has been contemplating the question, “How do we prevent crime?” Shaun has more than 25 years of experience in advocacy for survivors of crime, HIV/AIDS-infected/affected individuals, undocumented immigrants, family court petitioners, and children. She has lived in the Las Vegas area since 2005, working and volunteering for dozens of local non-profit organizations. Shaun is a proud graduate of City University of New York School of Law. Suggestions for episodes and questions for Shaun can be emailed questions@sinsandsurvivors.com
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