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Combating Human Trafficking During Major Events

Feb 3

4 min read

By: Jonathan Walden, Detective Sergeant, Michigan State Police


Large-scale events like sports tournaments, concerts, and conventions bring thousands of people into cities, generating excitement and economic activity. However, these gatherings also create opportunities for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals. The Michigan State Police (MSP), through their Trafficking and Abduction Group (TAG), proactively combats human trafficking during high-profile events, such as the NFL Draft, NCAA March Madness, the Detroit Auto Show, and others. Their efforts highlight MSP’s dedication to preventing human trafficking and recovering victims during large events where the risk of exploitation is heightened.


By leveraging advanced technology, undercover operations, and interagency collaboration, MSP focuses on identifying and recovering victims before traffickers can exploit them. The 2024 NFL Draft serves as a prime example, but MSP’s work doesn’t stop there.


Stadium full of cheering fans waving flags, with sunlight on the vibrant green field. Banners and flags create a lively atmosphere.

The Exploitation of Large Public Events

Major events create a “supply and demand” situation that traffickers seek to exploit. When tens of thousands of people gather for an event, such as the NFL Draft or the NCAA Sweet 16, traffickers often bring victims into the city to meet the increased demand. With these high-risk periods, MSP takes a proactive approach, using technology and intelligence gathering to target trafficking operations before they escalate.


Technology’s Role in Identifying and Tracking Trafficking Victims

One of the most valuable tools in MSP’s proactive strategy is Spotlight, a platform that enables law enforcement to track and analyze online commercial sex ads in real-time. This tool was particularly crucial during Detroit’s recent events, as MSP investigators noticed a significant spike in commercial sex ads leading up to the events, signaling that traffickers were preparing to bring victims into the city.


Using Spotlight, Detective Sergeant Walden and his team in the Trafficking and Abduction Group (TAG), along with other intel analysts across Metro Detroit, were able to track these ads, monitor patterns of trafficking activity, and pinpoint where traffickers were likely operating. The tool allowed MSP to identify high-risk locations and individuals involved in trafficking, enabling them to launch targeted undercover operations.


The results were striking: during the operation surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft, MSP recovered 14 trafficking victims, including multiple women from South America and a 24-year-old woman from Missouri who was brought to Detroit with her five young children, all under the age of seven. Spotlight’s ability to monitor trafficking trends made it easier for MSP to identify victims and intervene before further exploitation could occur.


A Holistic Approach to Victim Recovery

While recovering victims is a critical part of MSP’s operations, the department also emphasizes providing survivors with the care they need to begin recovering from their traumatic experiences. MSP’s Victim Services Program (VSP) partners with multiple advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations to ensure that survivors are connected with essential resources such as medical care, emergency housing, and legal assistance. The MSP VSP does not stop there. VSP advocates continue to provide support to survivors throughout the entirety of their case, helping them navigate the complexities of court and continued resources tailored to their specific needs.


The collaboration between MSP, victim service agencies, and Spotlight technology highlights a comprehensive approach to human trafficking—recovering victims and empowering them with the tools they need for healing and recovery.


The Bigger Picture: Addressing Human Trafficking Year-Round

Although large events like the NFL Draft, NCAA tournaments, and the Detroit Auto Show highlight the increased risks of trafficking, human trafficking is a year-round issue. Traffickers constantly exploit individuals for sex and labor, and law enforcement must remain vigilant at all times.


The work of Michigan State Police extends far beyond high-profile events. MSP’s efforts include ongoing investigations, proactive undercover operations, and collaboration with local and national agencies to combat trafficking every day.


Education and Community Partnerships

In addition to law enforcement efforts, MSP places a significant emphasis on educating the community about human trafficking and prevention. Partnering with organizations like Truckers Against Trafficking and Purses with a Purpose, MSP works to raise awareness about the signs of trafficking and how individuals can report suspicious activity. These initiatives help mobilize the public to be active participants in the fight against human trafficking. Education is a vital component in addressing trafficking. MSP regularly conducts outreach programs, workshops, and training sessions to inform the community, law enforcement, and local businesses about how to identify and prevent trafficking. By equipping individuals with knowledge and resources, MSP seeks to create a more informed and vigilant community that can help combat trafficking year-round.


Furthermore, the Trafficking and Abduction Group (TAG) plays a critical role in instructing at the Michigan State Police Academy, local police academies, and various detective schools. These training sessions focus on the identification of human trafficking and its effects, ensuring that law enforcement officers are well-equipped to recognize and respond with empathy to trafficking cases effectively.


Leading the Fight

Human trafficking is an ongoing problem that requires continuous attention. Through their tireless work, MSP continues to lead the charge in the fight against human trafficking, but they can’t do it alone. Supported by technologies like Spotlight and strong partnerships, MSP ensures that victims are recovered, traffickers and held accountable, and vulnerable individuals are protected.



 


If you think you know someone who is a victim of human trafficking, reach out to your local police or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888).


If you are inspired by the work of the Vacaville Police Department and want to keep supporting access to Spotlight for their investigations, consider a donation to Spotlight to cover a license or two.



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