CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s game time, a time when folks from all over trickle into Charlotte to watch the ballers compete in the NCAA tournament.
"There is nothing like it," a patron told WCNC Charlotte.
As folks prepare to go out and play, officials are warning people about others, who may be looking for prey in big crowds and events around the city.
"During major sporting events like March Madness, you're going to have a large influx of the male population into one area," Alexa Arciero, with Youth4Aboliton, said.
Arciero said an influx of men includes a rise in the demand for sex.
Debbie Manning is the CEO of the National Center for Missing and Endangered. Manning said big events and spring break brings in lots of irresponsible people.
She said one slip-up is all it takes.
"Getting a child back from human trafficking is not an easy task for law enforcement or even homeland security," Manning said. "There was a girl by the name of Brittanee Drexel 13 years ago and the last recording that we have is Brittanee walking out of the hotel."
Brittanee was with one of her friends and was never seen again ... her remains were finally found years later.
To stay safe, officials are encouraging folks to stay alert using proactive steps that could save their lives.
"Don't take any type of drinks, or anything from anybody, and don't ask someone to hold something for you that you're going to consume," Manning advised.
"Look out for your friends and for the people you're out there with, have a buddy system," Arciero said.
Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.