MICHIGAN - January is recognized as Human Trafficking Prevention Month across the U.S. where state leaders, law enforcement, nonprofits, and community advocates are working to raise awareness, strengthen prevention efforts, and support survivors of human trafficking. This observance highlights the importance of public education about how trafficking occurs and what families and communities can do to protect individuals and report suspected exploitation.
Human trafficking by the numbers
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Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to compel labor or commercial sex and is recognized as a serious crime by federal and state authorities. It is a hidden crime, and many incidents go unreported. Still, available figures from the National Human Trafficking Hotline offer a glimpse into the scale of concerns in Michigan and nationally.
In Michigan, since the Hotline began tracking data in 2007, over 10,900 “signals” — incoming calls, texts, or online reports — have been received regarding possible trafficking activity. During 2024 alone, the Hotline received 764 signals from Michigan, leading to the identification of 340 potential trafficking cases involving 585 victims. These cases included both sex trafficking and labor exploitation situations.
Nationally, the Hotline identified 11,999 potential trafficking cases in 2024, involving 21,865 victims, demonstrating the broader scale of the issue beyond state lines. Because trafficking typically remains underreported, these figures are likely to represent only a portion of total experiences, making public awareness and reporting even more critical.
What to watch out for
Trafficking situations often occur out of sight and may involve people who appear controlled, restricted in movement, or fearful. Warning signs highlighted by law enforcement and anti-trafficking programs include:
- Individuals who do not have control over their own identification, money, or communication
- Someone being watched or accompanied closely by another person
- Signs of physical harm or neglect
- Sudden or unexplained changes in behavior
The public is urged to learn these indicators as part of broader community vigilance.
Reduce the risk
Experts emphasize that while no one is responsible for being trafficked, there are steps people and families can take to reduce vulnerability and strengthen safety:
- Beware of unrealistic offers: Be cautious of job or travel opportunities that sound too good to be true or that require you to give up personal documents or sign contracts without review.
- Verify opportunities independently: Research employers, recruiters, and housing arrangements before agreeing to work or relocate.
- Keep identification secure: Never surrender your ID, passport, or official documents to another person unless it’s a verified and safe situation.
- Stay in regular contact: Let trusted friends or family know your plans and check in frequently.
- Watch out for online recruitment tactics: Scammers and traffickers often use social media and messaging platforms to contact young people with false promises.
Preventive education and awareness strengthen personal and community defenses against trafficking. Programs and trainings are available through organizations like the Michigan Human Trafficking Task Force and local anti-trafficking nonprofits.
How Michigan is responding
Michigan’s response to human trafficking is built on the understanding that prevention and protection must be prioritized at every level, from community, to law enforcement and government agencies.
Across the state, the Michigan Human Trafficking Commission works to coordinate a multidisciplinary approach that brings together law enforcement, prosecutors, healthcare providers, educators, social service agencies, survivor advocates, faith leaders, and community organizations. This collaboration helps ensure that victims are identified earlier, supported more effectively, and connected to trauma-informed services that prioritize safety and recovery.
What to do if you suspect trafficking
If you see something that might be trafficking:
- If there’s immediate danger, call 911 right away.
- Confidential reporting and assistance are available 24/7 through the National Human Trafficking Hotline:
- Phone: 1-888-373-7888
- Text: BeFree to 233733
- Report online: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en/report-traffickingThese services connect callers with safety planning, referrals to local support agencies, and appropriate law enforcement resources when needed.
- Michigan also offers local support through the VOICES4 Hotline, which provides confidential crisis counseling and connections to services statewide for human trafficking and related violence issues:
- Call/Text: 1-855-864-2374https://www.michigan.gov/voices4/human-trafficking