The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Thursday a new partnership between the DHS Blue Campaign and six law enforcement, first responder and public safety agencies in Los Angeles to combat human trafficking, marking the first time the Blue Campaign is partnering with six government agencies in one city.
DHS’s Blue Campaign aims to combat human trafficking through enhanced public awareness, training, victim assistance, and law enforcement investigations.
Human trafficking is the fastest growing business of organized crime. Estimates put the number of domestic and international human trafficking victims in the millions, mostly females and children enslaved in the commercial sex industry for little or no money, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Human trafficking is a heinous crime that tragically occurs in this city and in cities and towns throughout the world,” said Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. “Thanks to the dedication of federal, local law enforcement and civic officials, and with the vision and support of Mayor Eric Garcetti, we have built a unique, inclusive partnership in Los Angeles that serves as a model for the Nation in the critical fight against this crime."
The new partnership includes the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Airport Police, Los Angeles Port Police, Los Angeles Department of Housing Investment and Community Development, and the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.
These Los Angeles agencies will provide Blue Campaign training and awareness materials throughout the metropolitan area to help the public recognize indicators of human trafficking and understand how to report suspected cases.
In the last year, the Blue Campaign also established partnerships with the Virginia Office of the Attorney General, South Carolina Office of the Attorney General and the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights.
