Senators Fedor and Grendell highlight findings from the report
Columbus – The Ohio Trafficking in Persons Study Commission’s Training and Law Enforcement Subcommittee released a report today stating that comprehensive law enforcement training should continue and be kept up to date to most effectively combat human trafficking. The report also recommends that regional law enforcement working groups be implemented throughout Ohio. Senators Teresa Fedor (D-Toledo) and Timothy Grendell (R-Chesterland), Co-Chairs on the Commission, highlight some of the key points of the report.
“These key recommendations are critically important for our law enforcement officials,” Senator Fedor said. “For those who are on the front lines of combating human trafficking the report’s recommendations are timely and will be effective.”
In the past year, Ohio’s law enforcement training regarding human trafficking has significantly increased. Since the Commission’s creation, the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) and other state and non-profit organizations developed an introductory class on human trafficking for Ohio’s peace officers. The course provides officers with victim and perpetrator profiles, highlights trafficking networks, and gives officers action steps. Nearly 400 officers have enrolled since the course was established. This is one of numerous training opportunities Ohio’s peace officers now have.
The City of Toledo is a prime example where increased training has had a significant impact,” Senator Fedor said. “Toledo is leading the country in the rescue of trafficking victims and in the arrests of those involved in trafficking.”
The Subcommittee also recommends that regional law enforcement working groups be formed throughout the State. These groups would gather multiple jurisdictions together to discuss individual trafficking cases and trends in specific regions. The creation of working groups would be more cost-effective and, should the working groups prove successful, task forces would be the next step. Federal grant dollars may also be possible if the working groups are a success.
“Human trafficking working groups and up-to-date training are essential for Ohio’s law enforcement to combat human trafficking,” Senator Tim Grendell said. “These recommendations further our goals to prevent human trafficking and prosecute offenders, and to protect our children and communities in Ohio. We will continue to address this issue this fall in committee.”
The full report from the Ohio Trafficking in Persons Study Commission Training and Law Enforcement Subcommittee may be read here.
