Human trafficking conference to highlight how to better protect kids

Riverside County's annual “Human Trafficking Conference” will be held next week, beginning Tuesday, in a virtual forum focused on deterring sex crimes against children.

The 2023 conference will be hosted by the Department of Public Social Services, featuring multiple speakers and breakout sessions. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday.

Access is free and available via https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lets-start-the-conversation-tickets-488190299327.

Speakers will zero-in on factors that lead to youths falling victim to sex traffickers and what resources are available to parents and guardians to prevent exploitation.

“It is our goal to empower you with the knowledge and tools that fit your family's needs to help protect them and the community by starting the conversation about online safety and human trafficking,” according to DPSS. “It is hard to fathom a child becoming a victim of human trafficking. However, it does happen. We will share information about services available in the community, as well as how you can help combat this growing hidden crime.”

Representatives from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Crime Survivors for Safety & Justice, the Organization for Social Media Safety and the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center will be making presentations.

“Workshop topics include grooming, male survivorship, services for victims and trauma-informed care,” organizers said.

In 2022, DPSS' Children's Services Division investigated 200 cases in which minors had been victimized by sex traffickers, or were at risk of exploitation, according to the agency.

The conference coincides with National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Officials asked anyone with information regarding potential human trafficking offenses, or victims in need of help, to contact the 24-hour national hotline at 888-373-7888.