LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — January marks National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about human trafficking. In Arkansas, the issue is often hidden in plain sight, according to Arkansas State Police human trafficking coordinator, Sgt. Matt Foster. “We always think about images of kids caged, people caged. Well it’s not reality. It’s people hidden in plain sight. They’re in the grocery stores with us. They’re at the gas stations. They can be anybody,” Foster said.
The Arkansas State Police, along with a human trafficking council comprising multiple state entities and nonprofits, works to combat this issue. These organizations provide victim services and advocate for those affected. Foster emphasized the importance of vigilance, urging the public to report anything abnormal. “Just be vigilant, and if something looks abnormal, just reach out to us,” he said. “We have email, [email protected]. We also have, you can just call State Police or your local law enforcement agency, and they’ll provide assistance.
For those affected by trafficking, Foster encouraged reaching out for help. “We have so many more people than just state police and law enforcement officers that can help you. We have victim services, individuals that are not connected to the law enforcement or the state government that can that can protect you.” he said…