Human Trafficking: Troy Police Hope To Boost Awareness

TROY, MI – Human trafficking has become a growing problem for communities across Michigan, the nation and the world. On Tuesday, police here will host a special forum for anyone in the community to find out what it is, how widespread of a crime it is, and how to spot it.

The Michigan Abolitionist Project, an organization that aims to end human trafficking, will give a presentation during the event. Human trafficking happens when one person uses force, coercion, threats or other tactics to make another person do something against his or her will, according to the organization's website. It is the second largest criminal activity in the state, according to the group.

In 2017, there were 305 cases of human trafficking reported in Michigan, according to Polaris, an organization that operates a national hotline to help victims and survivors. Of the cases reported, 263 involved women and 99 were were children, reported the organization.

The event will feature a showing of the short movie "Chosen" and discussion with MAP Executive Director Kathy Maitland. Members of the Troy Police Department will be on hand to provide the local perspective.

Pre-registration is not necessary to attend the event, which is at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Troy Police Department at 500 W. Big Beaver Road.

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