City of Columbia highlights National Human Trafficking Prevention Month
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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The City of Columbia is highlighting January as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
The city’s Neighborhood Safety and Engagement department is requesting the community to raise awareness, stay vigilant, and support survivors of human trafficking.
In South Carolina, human trafficking is defined as the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex acts.
The Department of Homeland Security lists common signs as individuals appearing fearful or submissive; lack of control over their own identification, schedule, or living conditions; signs of physical abuse; being controlled by another adult; or engaging in sex work under unusual or coercive conditions.
According to 2024 data released by the SC Attorney General’s Office, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigated 285 trafficking tips statewide, nearly 400 potential victims, many minors.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH) also reported dozens of incidents from South Carolina with hundreds of likely victims.
Officials say there are national resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
And the Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign, whose “Indicator Card” which helps community members learn signs and report suspicions.
People in South Carolina are encouraged to stay alert, trust your instincts, and report suspicious behavior.
To report an incident, seek support, or for referrals to local services from trained professionals call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
The Hotline is confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Immediate Help & Reporting:
If you believe a person is in danger or being trafficked:
- Call 911 if life is at risk
- Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888, or text 233733 (BeFree) or visit their website at https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en
- You may also call the national DHS/HSI tip line at 1-866-347-2423 or visit their website at https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign
View data and statistics on human trafficking in South Carolina at https://www.scag.gov/human-trafficking/data-reports
