The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging Texans to stay alert and educate themselves about human trafficking throughout January, which has been designated as Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Colonel Freeman F. Martin stated, "Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our society. We are committed to working tirelessly with our partners to identify and rescue victims, hold traffickers accountable and empower our communities with the knowledge they need to recognize and report suspicious activity. It will take all of us to stop it."
Human trafficking involves force, fraud, or coercion in labor exploitation or commercial sex acts, particularly involving minors under 18 years old. This issue affects every state daily and often goes unnoticed by communities.
DPS leads the state's efforts against human trafficking through its Human Trafficking Program. Special Agents from the Criminal Investigations Division collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies within Texas and other states to address major human trafficking organizations.
The DPS employs a victim-centered approach that emphasizes victim identification, recovery, safety, stabilization alongside investigating traffickers. In fiscal year 2024, DPS Special Agents recovered 446 victims and arrested 874 suspects related to human trafficking charges.
Public awareness plays a crucial role in combating human trafficking since these operations can appear as legitimate businesses in visible areas. Traffickers exploit high-risk populations such as homeless individuals, juvenile runaways, drug users, those with difficult home lives or language barriers.
Texans are advised to watch for signs of human trafficking:
- A person controlled physically or psychologically by another.
- Lack of awareness about surroundings.
- Untreated illnesses or injuries.
- Inappropriate clothing for weather or age.
- Being transported by an employer.
- Living at work locations or working long hours.
- Unusual security measures at workplaces.
While these indicators do not confirm human trafficking alone, their combination may suggest potential cases warranting law enforcement investigation.
If you notice signs of human trafficking call 911 immediately with details ready; reports can also be made via iWatchTexas or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “BeFree” to 233733.
It is important not to intervene directly if you suspect someone involved in human trafficking for personal safety reasons.
