Kannapolis, North Carolina, February 12, 2026
In a heartfelt plea, Shaquanna Harris, a Kannapolis mother, is seeking the public’s assistance in locating her daughter, LeQuanda Robinson, who has been missing for one year. Fearful that her daughter, now 17, may become a victim of human trafficking again, Shaquanna highlights the urgency of the situation. LeQuanda disappeared under troubling circumstances, and her mother’s efforts, alongside organizations like the Black and Missing Foundation, aim to bring awareness to the dangers of human trafficking, especially regarding minors.
Kannapolis Mother Renews Urgent Plea for Missing Teen, Suspecting Recurrence of Human Trafficking
Kannapolis, North Carolina – A Kannapolis mother has made an urgent appeal to the public for information regarding her daughter, LeQuanda Robinson, who has been missing for one year. The teen’s mother, Shaquanna Harris, fears that LeQuanda, now 17, may once again be a victim of human trafficking, a distressing possibility given the teen’s past experiences. LeQuanda disappeared on February 7, 2025, when she was 16 years old.
One Year Since Disappearance
The somber one-year mark of LeQuanda Robinson’s disappearance passed on February 7, 2026. Her mother, Shaquanna Harris, continues to search for answers and hopes the community can provide any details that might lead to LeQuanda’s safe return. LeQuanda, who was reportedly excited to graduate early from A.L. Brown High School and pursue a major in criminal justice at North Carolina State University, was last seen on security footage running from her home. Her mother followed shortly after and observed an 18-wheeler truck on the street where LeQuanda was headed. Ms. Harris emphasized the critical nature of the situation, urging the public not to dismiss her daughter’s disappearance as merely a runaway case, as LeQuanda is still a minor and could be in danger.
Previous Trafficking Incident Raises Concerns
Tragically, this is not the first time LeQuanda has gone missing. In July 2024, when she was 15, LeQuanda was previously coerced by 43-year-old Andrew Szech to travel to Illinois. There, she was reportedly held captive, physically and sexually abused, leading to a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This past trauma significantly amplifies the current fears for her safety and well-being. Derrica Wilson, co-founder of the Black and Missing Foundation, is actively assisting in the search efforts, highlighting the heightened concern due to LeQuanda’s history as a trafficking victim.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Assistance
Kannapolis Police officials have stated that while there are no new updates in the case, their search for LeQuanda Robinson is ongoing. They are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward and contact authorities. The cooperation of the public is crucial in cases involving missing minors, especially when human trafficking is suspected.
Understanding Human Trafficking: A State and Nationwide Concern
Human trafficking, often described as a form of modern slavery, involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for commercial sex acts or forced labor and services. It is a pervasive crime that affects communities across the country and within North Carolina. North Carolina consistently ranks among the top ten states nationwide for reported human trafficking cases. In 2024, state-level data indicated 301 identified human trafficking cases in North Carolina, affecting 580 victims. While adult females are disproportionately affected, the trafficking of minors remains a significant concern, with 73 child victims identified in the state in 2024 alone.
Vulnerabilities and Tactics of Traffickers
Traffickers often target individuals who are vulnerable, including those with a history of running away, experiencing homelessness, or engaging in online interactions that can be manipulated. They employ various tactics such as false promises of high-paying jobs, romantic manipulation, debt bondage, threats, and confiscating personal identification documents to control their victims.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Identifying the signs of human trafficking is critical for intervention. Some key indicators may include:
- Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, cuts, or other signs of physical abuse that lack a clear explanation.
- Sudden Behavioral Changes: Exhibiting anxiety, fear, depression, withdrawal, or an unusual level of submissiveness.
- Lack of Control: Limited freedom of movement, inability to control their own schedule or possessions, or not having their own identification documents.
- Signs of Malnourishment or Poor Hygiene: Appearing hungry, sleep-deprived, or inappropriately dressed for the weather or surroundings.
- Being Accompanied by an Overly Controlling Individual: Someone who prevents the person from speaking freely or answering questions, or appears to be in control of their movements.
- Unusual Financial Activity: Having expensive gifts, clothing, or unexplained cash that seems beyond their means, yet lacking control over money.
- Isolation from Support Systems: Withdrawal from family, friends, or previous activities.
- Coached Responses: Appearing rehearsed or disoriented when asked questions.
- Multiple Phones or Changing Numbers Frequently: Potentially to evade detection or communicate with various individuals.
- New or Unusual Tattoos: These might be used to identify them as someone’s property.
How to Report Suspected Human Trafficking
If you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, it is crucial to report your concerns to the appropriate authorities. Do not attempt to confront a suspected trafficker directly or alert the victim to your suspicions, as this could put both yourself and the victim at risk. Law enforcement agencies are equipped to investigate these complex cases. For immediate assistance or to report a tip, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. This confidential resource is available 24/7.
You can reach the National Human Trafficking Hotline by:
- Calling 1-888-373-7888
- Texting “HELP” or “BEFREE” to 233733
Help is available in multiple languages, and callers can remain anonymous. Additionally, local law enforcement should be contacted immediately.
Key Features of Human Trafficking and Reporting
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of Human Trafficking | The use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for commercial sex acts or forced labor/services. | Nationwide |
| Prevalence in North Carolina | Consistently ranks among the top 10 states in the nation for reported cases. | State-level |
| Identified Cases in NC (2024) | 301 human trafficking cases identified, involving 580 victims. | State-level |
| Child Victims in NC (2024) | 73 child victims identified. | State-level |
| National Human Trafficking Hotline | Confidential, 24/7 resource for help or reporting. Call 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” / “BEFREE” to 233733. | Nationwide |
| Reporting Protocol | Contact law enforcement; do not confront suspected traffickers or alert victims directly. | Nationwide |
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