January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The month is set aside as a way to try and raise awareness about the crime.
Northeast Ohio has a number of agencies who help victims, including the Renee Jones Empowerment Center.
Rachel Kaisk is a victim of sex trafficking. She found help at the center. "There is nothing but love here," said Kaisk. And she offers hope to other victims. "If I can make it, they can too," added Kaisk.
The FBI has two divisions that handle human trafficking investigations, civil rights and violent crimes against children.
The FBI has also formed a partnership with other federal agencies as well as state and local departments in investigating and prosecuting human trafficking offenders.
"We see kids from all different walks of life who have been victimized and exploited. It's not just the poor kid who is promised food and clothing, we also have kids who have everything at home," said Special Agent Vicki Anderson.
The FBI also continues Operation Cross County, a national multi-agency law enforcement operation aimed at identifying and recovering child victims.
The FBI also has the Office for Victim Assistance. There are victim specialists who are located throughout field offices.
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