The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of North Carolina (USAO-MDNC) recently hosted its second annual human trafficking simulation in Greensboro. This event, held in collaboration with The Human Trafficking Resource Center and the Lexington Police Department, aimed to educate community members, law enforcement, and service organizations about the warning signs of human trafficking and provide resources for victims.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department of Justice to mark National Human Trafficking Awareness Month every January. The simulation provided an opportunity for participants to understand the experiences of human trafficking victims better. Despite challenging weather conditions, around 35 individuals from various sectors across the state attended, including service providers, NGOs, churches, medical professionals, law enforcement personnel, analysts, and victim services representatives. Attendees also had discussions with prosecutors and law enforcement officials regarding governmental responses to human trafficking.
United States Attorney Sandra J. Hairston emphasized the importance of public awareness in combating this crime: “The exploitation of human beings for profit has no place in any society. Whether it’s forced labor, domestic servitude, or sex trafficking of children or adults, human trafficking is happening every day in every state, stripping victims of their dignity and forcing them into a life of fear and servitude.” She added that public involvement is crucial in identifying cases and preventing these crimes.
For those affected by human trafficking or who know someone who is impacted, help can be accessed through the National Human Trafficking Hotline. The hotline offers free and confidential assistance around the clock via phone at 1-888-373-7888 or text "HELP" to 233733 (BEFREE). Online chat support is available at humantraffickinghotline.org/chat. In emergencies, individuals are advised to call 911.