Agencies Recognize Human Trafficking Prevention

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January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, marking the anniversary of the passage of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. The Missouri Department of Transportation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and local law enforcement have joined to combat the crime of human trafficking in the Show-Me State.

“Human trafficking remains a growing concern in Missouri, particularly along the interstate corridors,” said MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna. “That makes uniting the efforts of everyone in the transportation sector of vital importance in combatting this rapidly expanding criminal enterprise.”

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were 240 human trafficking cases reported in Missouri in 2021. MoDOT has provided public information about human trafficking and continues to train employees about the common indicators of human trafficking and how to report potential cases.

“Human trafficking often involves our nation’s transportation systems, including Missouri’s roadways,” said Col. Eric Olson of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “Our commercial vehicle drivers, inspectors, law enforcement officers, and the general public need to know what to look for and how to respond to these situations to help rescue the vulnerable people being exploited.”

Signs of human trafficking are not always obvious, and may include:

  • The presence of an older “boyfriend” or “girlfriend;”

  • Travel with an older male/female who isn’t a guardian;

  • Signs of psychological coercion, such as depression, anxiety, and/or an overly submissive attitude;

  • Lack of control over his/her schedule, money, and/or items proving identification;

  • Physical trauma (bruises, cuts, burns, scars);

  • Poor health;

  • Coached/rehearsed responses to questions;

  • Substance abuse or addictions, selling drugs; or,

  • Homelessness.

If you suspect someone is being forced to engage in any activity from which they can’t leave—whether it is commercial sex, housework, farm work or other activity—call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree (233733). Information is available online at humantraffickinghotline.org.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story