Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has partnered with major utility companies and the Arizona Anti-Human Trafficking Network to launch a training initiative aimed at combating human trafficking. The effort, announced during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, involves training utility employees across Arizona to recognize and report signs of human trafficking.
The partnership includes APS, SRP, TEP, and UniSource Energy Services. Representatives from these organizations collaborated over several months to develop the training program. The initiative focuses on raising awareness among utility workers about the indicators of human trafficking.
Attorney General Mayes emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "This partnership reflects our collective commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable members of our communities." She thanked the participating utilities and the Arizona Anti-Human Trafficking Network for their dedication to addressing this issue.
Bob Smith, APS Executive Vice President and General Counsel, highlighted the role of APS employees in recognizing warning signs due to their presence in various communities across Arizona. "Through this partnership with our peer utilities and the Attorney General’s Office, we are committed to supporting efforts to combat this serious issue," he said.
Michael O’Connor from SRP noted that as one of Arizona's largest employers, SRP is dedicated to community safety. He remarked that the training provides crucial information that could prevent individuals from becoming victims.
Amy Welander of TEP and UniSource expressed her support for contributing to anti-trafficking efforts through awareness building. She stated that such measures could enhance victim assistance initiatives and help reduce crime prevalence.
Fidencio Rivera of AATN praised the joint effort for expanding awareness and strengthening Arizona's ability to address human trafficking. He stressed that collaborations like this are essential for protecting vulnerable people and fostering safer communities statewide.