January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and SOS, Inc. is actively spreading awareness of the signs and severity of human trafficking.
Human trafficking, as defined by Kansas law, is the recruitment, harboring, transportation, or obtaining of a person for labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of involuntary servitude or forced labor. Kansas, being a central state makes it a prime area for long-distance transportation of trafficked people, says Assistant Director of Crisis Services, TinaRae Scott.
Victims of human trafficking are not limited to any specific demographic and can be anyone. There are certain signs that victims might display, says Scott, especially in minors.
If you or anyone you know suspects human trafficking, contact law enforcement immediately, but SOS, Inc. encourages people to NOT approach an alleged trafficker due to the potential danger and unpredictable nature of human trafficking.
SOS, Inc. provides services to help those being trafficked, or those affected by the crime. SOS, Inc. has a 24-hour hotline available, (800) 825-1295, for anyone who may need it. For more information, visit www.soskansas.com or call (620) 343-8799.
