In Alaska, January is the official month that is recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
According to a proclamation for the office of Governor Mike Dunleavy, human trafficking is modern day slavery with an estimated 27.6 million people affected globally. While it is reported in every U.S state and territory, it unfortunately can happen to anyone.
It is the second-most profitable crime, with the illicit drug trafficking crime trade being the most profitable.
In some cases of sex trafficking, the victims get lured into a false promise of safe housing, “honest work”, and the opportunity of a better life.
When the traffickers can finally get their victim to succumb to their trap, they force the victim in commercial sex acts and servitude.
Human trafficking is a serious public health issue, and can affect the well-being of individuals, families, friends, and communities in both rural and urban Alaska.
This crime can happen to anyone, but human traffickers tend to target populations like individuals who have been affected by violence, abuse, social disconnection, unstable living situations, or discrimination.
In a Facebook post from the Alaska State Troopers, the AST takes sex trafficking extremely seriously, and have decided to dedicate an entire unit just to investigate any sex trafficking that occurs within the state.
They ask members of the community to be extremely vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity.
“You can submit anonymous tips to the Alaska State Troopers using the AK Tips smartphone app. If you or someone you know is a victim of sex or human trafficking, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 (888) 373-7888,” reads the post.
If you or suspect someone may be a victim of Human Trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “help” to Be Free (233733).