Attorney General Todd Rokita has called on NBA All-Star fans visiting Indianapolis this week to be vigilant about human trafficking. With over 100,000 visitors expected for the 2024 NBA All-Star games, there is an increased risk of trafficking activities.
"All-Star weekend is meant to be fun and safe,” said Attorney General Rokita. “But a large sporting event is a trafficker's ultimate marketplace for this modern form of slavery. Please be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.”
Certain professionals, such as medical staff, restaurant workers, hotel employees, and truck drivers, are more likely to encounter victims of trafficking.
Human trafficking generates billions in criminal profits by forcing individuals into labor or commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. If the victim is under 18, the crime stands regardless of these elements.
The U.S. State Department outlines several indicators that someone may be a victim of trafficking: living with their employer or in cramped conditions with many people; experiencing poor living standards; being restricted from speaking freely with strangers; providing scripted responses; having identity documents held by an employer; showing physical abuse signs; appearing submissive or fearful; receiving little or no pay; and being underage in the commercial sex industry.
Suspected trafficking cases should be reported immediately to local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Rokita highlighted that criminal cartels from Mexico significantly contribute to human trafficking in America. "Human trafficking might not seem like a threat to everyday Hoosiers, but with the constant threat taking place at our border, it should be on our minds constantly,” he noted.
Beyond addressing border issues through lawsuits, Rokita’s office runs initiatives like the Address Confidentiality Program. This program aims to protect victims by keeping their residential addresses confidential.
More information on these efforts can be found on the Attorney General’s website.