New York Police Warning: If You See This, Call ASAP

The New York State Police (NYSP) were out in force last week with a very important message for the public.

Similar to New York City's anti-terrorism slogan, "if you see something, say something", NYSP spent time speaking to commercial truck drivers to share some very important resources in stopping a growing threat in the country. Here's how you can help, too.

The New York State Police conducted a special outreach program with truck drivers to educate them on signs of human trafficking (NYSP via Facebook)

Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative in New York State

"Last week, our New York State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit and Traffic Incident Management handed out flyers to truckers and commercial vehicles to promote Human Trafficking Awareness", began a post from the NYSP. While truck drivers are on the road more than most, the information is helpful for everybody. Here's what to watch out for if you suspect you know a trafficking victim:

The special pamphlets handed out to truck drivers in New York state last week focused on telltale signs of human trafficking (NYSP via Facebook)

How to Recognize a Potential Human Trafficking Victim

The Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached at 888-373-7888. They share that specific signs that should "raise concern" include someone you know being "showered with gifts or money" by someone they met recently, especially if they have entered an "asymmetric" relationship (meaning that there is a large age gap, financial gap, or both between the two parties). That's not all.

Other Human Trafficking Warning Signs

Other warning signs include someone you know developing a close relationship with a person they have only talked to online, being pressured to move for a job that refuses to share specific employment details, or if they are offered employment "that seems too good to be true". There are also new resources offered by New York State.

If you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking in New York, contact "My Sister's Place" in White Plains, NY (Canva/NY.gov)

Anti-Human Trafficking Resources in New York State

There are many resources available in New York that are designated by region (above). In the Hudson Valley (located in the "Metro Region"), the Response to Human Trafficking Program (RHTP) at My Sister's Place in White Plains is the designated resource group. Visit them here or call 1-800-298-7233 (SAFE) if you or someone you know is in need of help.

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Residents of Columbia and Greene Counties should contact their closest resource in the "Albany Region" (find them here). Learn more signs to watch out for if you suspect someone is the victim of sex trafficking or labor trafficking here.