Attorney General Todd Rokita has urged residents of Indiana to remain vigilant during National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. In a statement, he highlighted the often-hidden nature of human trafficking and its impact on communities.
"Human trafficking may seem like an issue that doesn’t affect your specific community, but it’s sometimes brushed under the rug because victims are either scared to admit the truth or are groomed at a young age," said Attorney General Rokita. He noted the significant role online recruitment plays in this crime, emphasizing that children are particularly vulnerable due to their extensive online activities. "I encourage all parents to monitor their child’s online interactions to keep them safe," he added.
Human trafficking is described as a billion-dollar criminal enterprise involving force, fraud, or coercion for labor, services, or commercial sex acts. Certain professionals such as medical staff, restaurant workers, teachers, and truck drivers are more likely to encounter victims.
With January designated as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Attorney General Rokita reminded Hoosiers of the importance of recognizing signs of potential trafficking victims. "Human trafficking is a rapidly growing crime in Indiana and across our country," he stated. "Increasing awareness and education on the topic is the first step in helping these victims."
The U.S. State Department lists several indicators of human trafficking: living with an employer or multiple people in cramped conditions; poor living standards; restrictions on speaking alone with strangers; scripted responses; possession of identity documents by employers; physical abuse signs; submissive behavior; low or no pay; and minors working in commercial sex industries.
Residents suspecting human trafficking should contact local law enforcement immediately or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
The Office of the Attorney General offers an Address Confidentiality Program aimed at protecting victims by concealing their residential addresses from public access.
Further information about this program can be found on the Attorney General's website.
A headshot of Attorney General Rokita is available for download.