March 2018 Update on Ohio's Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts

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March 2018 Human Trafficking Update

A brief overview of current news and updates on Ohio's anti-trafficking movement


news

The Ohio Department of Public Safety hosted a roundtable discussion in conjunction with the Governor's State of the State Address to discuss the work of the Governor's Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force with key anti-trafficking stakeholders.

The Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, with support from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, led an undercover sting operation targeting adults seeking sex with children and arrested 10 individuals on solicitation charges.

On February 27, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that would amend the Communications Decency Act by specifically allowing criminal and civil actions against a website operator if its conduct violates federal sex trafficking laws.

An Ohio woman has pleaded guilty to charges of trafficking her daughters, ages 12 and 15, for sex in exchange for money to support her drug addiction.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline has expanded the modes of communication survivors can use to receive help to include 24/7 SMS texting and online chat services in English and Spanish.

On February 2, police raided and closed a Westerville massage business after officers received tips about suspicious activity. Two women were detained for questioning and interviewed. Service providers suspect the women may be victims of human trafficking.  

The Anti-Human Trafficking Programs of The Salvation Army of Greater Cincinnati and Central Ohio are hiring for open positions. Use the "Location" drop-down to find openings.  


tools & technical assistance

NEW RESOURCE: Human Trafficking Youth Awareness Video
A new human trafficking awareness video for youth, tailored specifically for youth in juvenile correctional facilities, has been developed by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, in partnership with the Ohio Department of Youth Services.

The Risk and Prevention of Maltreatment of Children with Disabilities
bulletin describing the scope of the abuse and neglect of children with disabilities, risk factors and strategies for prevention has been released by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.


meetings & events

Human Trafficking Youth Prevention Summit
March 22, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ The Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Sq. Columbus, OH
Ohio Representatives Teresa Fedor and Tavia Galonski are hosting a summit for students to discuss human trafficking prevention strategies. Students can register online.

Free Grant Writing Training Sessions
April 3 & October 9, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. @ The Ohio Department of Public Safety, 1970 W Broad St. Columbus, OH
The Office of Criminal Justice Services will host free grant-writing training sessions. To register, click here, select "New User" and follow the instructions given.

Crime Victims' Rights in Ohio Cross Disciplinary Training
April 6, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. @ Ohio University Lancaster, Brasee Hall, Room 221, 1570 Granville Pike, Lancaster, OH
The Ohio Crime Victim Justice Center is hosting a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary training that informs trainees about the legal rights of victims and ethical obligations of the attorneys assisting them.

7th Annual World Race for Hope 5k+
April 7, 10 a.m. @ Scioto Audubon Metro Park, 400 W Whittier St. Columbus, OH
The Free To Run Foundation is hosting its 7th annual 5k+ to raise awareness of human trafficking. Proceeds benefit Columbus-area non-profit organizations combating human trafficking. Register online through April 6.

Frontline to Freedom: Advanced Issues in Human Trafficking
April 27, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. @ NewPointe Community Church, 5305 Broadmoor Circle NW, Canton, OH
The Children's Network of Stark County is hosting a human trafficking training to discuss advanced issues such as identifying potential victims in a healthcare setting. CEUs are available.