“They have actually found human trafficking at certain truck stops in Michigan before.”
That’s Michigan State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division. Inspector Chris Keller.
“I don't think it's necessarily exclusive to one region, but it's happening in more places than we would probably like to admit.”
This week, MSP motor carrier officers are teaming up with Truckers Against Trafficking and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance to educate those most likely to witness trafficking including rest area attendants and public transportation employees.
“The goal is to raise awareness and get information into the hands of people like truck drivers to try and get more eyes looking for human trafficking across the nation. “
Officers are hosting truck stop presentations and educating trucking companies and victims advocate groups on recognizing signs of trafficking.
“What you're looking for is things that look out of place. And if any citizen sees any person that looks to be in an uncomfortable situation, whether it be around commercial vehicles, whether it be at the grocery store, whether it be in anywhere in your life, they can reach out to the National Human Trafficking hotline and report that. “
To report suspected human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Resources Center at 888-373-7888 or text BeFree to 233733.
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