As thousands of fans travel to Indianapolis for the Brickyard 400, Attorney General Todd Rokita is calling on Hoosiers and visitors alike to be alert for signs of human trafficking – a horrendous crime that often hides in plain sight.
“Big events like the Brickyard bring out the best of Indiana – but can also attract the worst kinds of criminals,” Attorney General Todd Rokita said. “Traffickers often take advantage of these large events to operate in plain sight. This is more than a law enforcement issue – it’s a community effort. The more eyes watching for human trafficking, the better chance we have to save lives.”
The Office of the Attorney General is educating Hoosiers on the signs of human trafficking to increase awareness around this event. The U.S. State Department identifies key signs of trafficking, including individuals who:
- Appear submissive, fearful, or unable to speak freely, often avoiding eye contact.
- Live in cramped or poor conditions, often with their employer or handler.
- Show signs of physical abuse, malnourishment, or restricted movement.
- Give scripted, inconsistent, or rehearsed answers when questioned.
- Are minors engaged in commercial sex acts or seem overly controlled by someone nearby.
Attorney General Rokita encourages immediate reporting of suspected trafficking to local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
“This is about protecting children, women, and men – who are being manipulated, coerced, and sold,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Indiana is no place for traffickers, and we need every Hoosier to report suspicious activity and help stop this crime.”
New PIO officer announced for Indiana State Police Evansville District
Valentine seeks change of venue for murder trial
Indiana Gov. Braun declares state of disaster emergency for 63 Indiana counties
Lawrence County Board approves public safety tax referendum
Library district in solid financial shape
U.S. 41 road project continues in Knox County
Richland County death investigation
Vantlin named Heeps of Jeeps First Responder of the Year
Vincennes University to upgrade Beckes Park
Lawrenceville sewage plant visited by U.S. EPA
Two dead after head-on collision in Crawford County
First-ever statewide digital library resource program available in Illinois
Knox County approving preliminary solar project resolution
St Francisville to contract out bridge repair work
U.S. Postal Service will be closed in observance of Juneteenth, June 19
Feutz sworn in as new Bridgeport Police Chief
