ODOT, partners educate truck drivers about human trafficking

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – Truck drivers are learning about the crime of human trafficking – how to recognize it, how to report it and how to help prevent it – in a statewide effort involving ODOT’s Commerce and Compliance Division, Oregon Trucking Association, trucking companies, law enforcement and safety advocates.

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and several trucking industry organizations set aside Jan. 8 – 12 to focus on education. In Oregon, ODOT’s motor carrier enforcement officers and safety inspectors will share information with truck drivers as they visit weigh stations and offices around the state.

“ODOT is joining this national effort for the fourth year in a row because, unfortunately, transportation often plays a role in the crime of human trafficking,” said Carla Phelps, Roadside Enforcement and Safety manager for ODOT’s Commerce and Compliance Division. “Increasing awareness is critical in our fight against it.”

Around the world, millions of men, women and children are sold into prostitution, domestic servitude or other forced labor. Human trafficking has been reported in every U.S. state, according to the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. The United Nations has defined human trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt of people through force, fraud or deception with the aim of exploiting them for profit.

“Truck drivers often travel the same highways that human traffickers do, providing the perfect opportunity to be the eyes and ears out there,” said Jana Jarvis, executive director of Oregon Trucking Association. “We’re committed to helping grow the network of truck drivers who are trained to report on instances of human trafficking.”

Spreading the word to prevent the crime

ODOT has several staff members involved in human trafficking prevention. Commerce and Compliance Division Safety Technical Coordinator Ken Oke is one. He coordinates a variety of efforts, such as bringing in professionals to train CCD partners throughout the state.

At an event sponsored by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration later this year in Washington, D.C., Oke will participate in a panel on human trafficking prevention efforts.

Among his planned activities for 2024 are several human trafficking awareness trainings for Tribal governments and continued outreach to transit bus drivers.

“We appreciate the involvement of our roadside staff, law enforcement partners and the trucking industry in this incredibly important work,” Phelps said. “A special thank you to all the trucking companies, truck drivers and owner operators who are helping us fight human trafficking.”

NOTE: If you suspect a human trafficking event is occurring, do not confront the suspected trafficker or alert a victim to your suspicions. Call 911 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 1-888-373-7888. Involving law enforcement is the best way to help the potential victim.