Attorney General Ashley Moody has announced new initiatives to combat human trafficking in Florida. These efforts include the installation of signage at rest stops across the state and an increase in reward money for tips leading to the rescue of victims or arrest of traffickers.
"Human trafficking is an atrocious crime, and we here in Florida are dedicated to finding innovative solutions to continue our efforts to rescue victims," said Attorney General Moody. She urged Floridians to report suspicious activity by calling the statewide hotline at 1(855) FLA-SAFE or anonymously through **TIPS.
The new signs will be placed at all 53 rest stops in Florida, both outside restroom areas and inside stalls, encouraging travelers to report any suspicious activity. This initiative follows a collaboration with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) last year when it was discovered that tips from the National Human Trafficking Hotline were not always reaching law enforcement directly. The state's hotline is now operated within FDLE, ensuring direct communication with local authorities.
Additionally, a public-private partnership between the Florida Association of Crime Stoppers and Place of Hope has been established. By calling **TIPS and providing information that leads to a victim's rescue, individuals could receive up to $7,500 as a cash reward. Place of Hope CEO Charles Bender praised Attorney General Moody's leadership, stating she is "a warrior in our fight against this modern-day slavery."
Since taking office in 2019, Attorney General Moody has implemented several measures aimed at ending human trafficking in Florida. These include developing a statewide trafficking tip line, launching a Human Trafficking Investigative Strike Team, partnering with FLHSMV on Highway Heroes for commercial drivers' training, creating an Online Safety Toolkit for parents, raising awareness ahead of Super Bowls LIV and LV, training transportation employees on spotting trafficking signs, and supporting legislation for stricter penalties against traffickers.
Attorney General Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution has charged over 130 traffickers since 2019 with nearly perfect prosecution records.
Floridians are encouraged to look out for signs of human trafficking such as malnourishment or confusion in individuals or those who appear coached or fearful. Suspicious activities can be reported anonymously via **TIPS or directly through the Florida Human Trafficking Hotline at 1(855) FLA-SAFE.
For further details on these initiatives and how you can help prevent human trafficking, visit YouCanStopHT.com.