January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and some of Michigan's most well-traveled organizations are teaming up to end it. The Michigan State Police (MSP) Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division (CVED), the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), and Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) have joined forces to educate commercial drivers on how to spot the signs of human trafficking.

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From January 13-17, 2025, MSP motor carrier officers will hit the roads, working with truck drivers, rest stop workers, public transit employees, and anyone in a position to spot suspicious activity. These people drive up and down Michigan roads 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so they would be the people to notice when things are off. One call, one tip, could save lives.

How to Spot Human Trafficking

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Do you think you'd be able to spot human trafficking if it were happening right in front of you? Here's what to look out for:

  • People who don't have control of their ID or personal documents
  • Someone who can't have a conversation without being monitored constantly
  • Look for tattoos or brands (most commonly on the neck) that mark someone as "property"
  • Unexplained bruises or other injuries
  • Be on the lookout for cars that drop women off in male-dominated areas and return within 15-20 minutes

If you notice any of these signs, DON'T IGNORE IT—REPORT ITCall the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888, text BeFree to 233733, or visit HumanTraffickingHotline.org.

Michigan's Efforts to Educate and Protect

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According to a Michigan State Police press release, CVED staff held 41 presentations for over 1,800 people, from trucking companies to colleges and civic groups. Since teaming up with TAT in 2015, Michigan has become a national leader in trafficking awareness.

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As MSP Director Col. James F. Grady II puts it, "There's no room for human trafficking on our roadways."

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