U.S. Attorney’s Office Observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Spokane, Washington – January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. To commemorate the month, Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, along with several members of the office, joined with Lutheran Community Services Northwest on Wednesday, January 10, to honor survivors of Human Trafficking at a community reception at the Spokane’s Central Public Library. Lutheran Community Services is one of the United States Attorney’s Office’s principal partners in fighting human trafficking and advocating for survivors. The program included a training session for victim advocates, and was attended by law enforcement personnel, anti-trafficking advocates, and resource providers from around the region.

U.S. Attorney Waldref reaffirmed her commitment to the importance of federal prosecutors and community partners working together, “My office routinely partners with trauma-informed service providers to protect victims and survivors by connecting them with the resources and support they deserve. We also seek decades-long sentences for those who are convicted of keeping others enslaved through physical and sexual violence.”

Also this month, Assistant United States Attorney, Ann Wick, who serves as the Human Trafficking coordinator for the Eastern District, will be co-presenting a training for all deputy prosecuting attorneys in Spokane County. This training will focus on identifying the signs of trafficking in drug, property crime or domestic violence cases. The training will help put the focus on the victim’s needs, while also pursuing criminal charges.

Earlier this month, U.S. Attorney Waldref recorded a public service announcement, where she encouraged the public to learn the indicators of Human Trafficking and shared ways in join in the fight to prevent it.

If you are a victim of human trafficking or suspect you know one, please call the FBI, your local law enforcement, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1- 888-373-7888.