Community Reacts After Human Trafficking Sting Operation
By Alejandra Hernández Published: Feb. 26, 2024 at 6:47 PM MST
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JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – Residents in Jonesboro said they were shocked to learn a sting operation identified dozens of human trafficking victims in the area.
On Monday, Feb. 26, Arkansas State Police said five women believed to be victims of human trafficking were offered services and another 30 local victims were identified. One suspected trafficker was identified.
“That’s the type of stuff I see on social media, not knowing that it’s happening right here,” resident Danasha Freman said.
According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, there are over 20 million victims of human trafficking in the country.
Freman said she was surprised to see it happen in Northeast Arkansas.
“I hate that it’s happening in Jonesboro,” Freman said.
Ky Taylor, an advocate for survivors of human trafficking with Hope Found of NEA, said it was painful for her to see the crime happen again.
The organization is helping some of the women believed to be victims by making sure they are supported.
“We’d offer them medical services, hygiene, food, housing, anything that they need,” Taylor said.
Taylor said it was important to know that anyone could fall victim to human trafficking and to look for signs. She added most victims know their traffickers, something that Freman said will make her more aware.
“It just makes me always stay cautious of who I come across you know and just always have an open mind of any possibilities that can happen and always keep my guard up,” Freman said.
Freeman explained she would take a moment to learn more about human trafficking and hopes that others do the same.
“If I have the opportunity to learn then I’m gonna teach other people too, you know, ‘cause I’m learning myself,” Freman said.
If you want more information about human trafficking in Northeast Arkansas, you can visit Hope Found of NEA’s website.
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