Law enforcement collaboration targets human trafficking

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., recently partnered with the Virginia State Police and the Virginia Trucking Association to detect, deter and raise human trafficking awareness.

Operation Safe Passage is a high‐visibility human trafficking prevention, and public outreach initiative.

“HSI Washington, D.C. stands firmly behind our partners at the Virginia State Police as we engage in Operation Safe Passage,” said Homeland Security Investigations, Washington, D.C., Special Agent in Charge Ray Villanueva said. “We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our community and the prosecution of those who attempt to victimize our citizens.”

HSI operates the law enforcement arm of the Hampton Roads Human Trafficking Task Force.

During fiscal year 2021, HSI arrested 2,360 individuals nationwide in connection with human trafficking. From those cases, over 720 trafficking victims were identified and offered assistance.

“Preventing human trafficking and providing support to its victims have been a priority of Gov. (Glenn) Youngkin and his administration since stepping into office in January,” Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Bob Mosier said. “I am extremely pleased to see the Virginia State Police taking an aggressive and active stance toward addressing what has become a global pandemic. Virginia has no tolerance for the exploitation of any human being, and is committed to apprehending, prosecuting, and bringing to justice anyone associated with this crime.”

Authorities maintain truckers can act as surveillance, observing potential traffickers as they transport victims.

“Truck drivers are uniquely positioned to recognize potential victims of this heinous crime and properly alert law enforcement when they witness suspicious activity,” Virginia Trucking Association President and CEO Dale Bennett said.