LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Local business leaders in Allen County learned more about human trafficking during a West Central Ohio Safety Council meeting Tuesday morning.
The session focused on recognizing the signs of human trafficking. Crime Victim Services’ "Day One" program has been helping victims of trafficking since 2014, with part of its mission aimed at educating the public by speaking to community and business groups.
Erica Bingmon, a Day One advocate with Crime Victim Services, said labor trafficking often includes situations where individuals do not have control of their personal documents, such as identification cards, Social Security cards, or food stamp cards. “It’s important for employers to look out for those indicators in their employees and even their employees’ children,” Bingmon said.
Participants were encouraged to contact local authorities or Crime Victim Services if they suspect any type of trafficking.
In addition to the educational session, members of the Safety Council brought in non-perishable food and personal hygiene items to support the Veterans Food Pantry of Northwest Ohio in observance of Veterans Day.
