Report all signs of human trafficking | News, Sports, Jobs – Marietta Times

Human trafficking is a relatively recent term to describe an age-old crime. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defines it as “the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act.

“Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide — including right here in the United States,” DHS says.

Still, it is too easy to turn a blind eye to such horrific crimes occurring right here in Ohio. We'd rather not think about it. Fortunately, there are those in law enforcement who have made it their goal to eradicate human trafficking in the Buckeye State, and this week some of them scored a victory.

Wickliffe Police Department and Lake County Sheriff's officers coordinated with the Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force to arrest six men in a human trafficking sting. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced the men, charged with solicitation, included Eastlake City Council President John Meyers, reinforcing that those who fuel human trafficking in this country can come from all walks of life.

“The point of our task forces is to send a message to those who buy and sell human beings: We're coming for you, we're going to bust you and make sure everybody knows what you did. Don't buy sex in Ohio!” Yost said.

While enforcing the law on this matter is essential, it is important that the task force's actions also identified four potential victims of human trafficking and got them in touch with social services.

“If even one victim of human trafficking can be identified and helped, then the operation is a success and worth the effort. We will continue to work to help identify those who are taking advantage of these victims and bring them to justice,” said Lake County Chief Deputy Robert Izzo.

That's where we come in. If you don't think this kind of thing is happening right here in our own communities, it's time to open your eyes.

There are six law enforcement collaboratives across the state dedicated to fighting this scourge. If you suspect something — or if you need help — call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. Millions of victims across the country still need all the help they can get.