New initiative launched to help human trafficking victims in Oklahoma

Okla. — The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics launched a new initiative to strengthen the state's ability to help human trafficking victims.

Victims of human trafficking now have another tool they can use to get help.

'You Are Not Alone' is a project from OBN's Human Trafficking Unit that's being displayed throughout the state with posters, billboards and stickers. State officials said it's meant to educate and empower victims with the resources and support they need.

Posters and stickers will be placed in schools, universities, malls, stores and health care facilities. They'll have QR codes that will lead to OBN's website where people can find information about human trafficking and an anonymous reporting section. The QR codes will also direct visitors to resources from state agencies, certified NGO's and other Oklahoma coalitions and commissions.

Suzann Stewart with the Oklahoma Coalition Against Human Trafficking  is CEO at the Family Safety Center.

Stewart told FOX23 the first step, wanting help, is the biggest step victims need to take to better their situation.

“There are places to go for help in this state, in this city,” she said. “It’s very committed to working with you and your family.”

Stewart said they help victims from all over the state.

"That you are safe, that you are reunited with your family if you've been separated from them, that your offenders are identified, and that they are prosecuted and are held accountable,” she said.

OBN Spokesperson Mark Woodward said it’s pretty easy to get help if you're a victim of human trafficking. All you have to do is grab your smartphone, scan this QR code, and then you'll be connected to someone who can help you.

Woodward said in 2011, his department had to take the issue of human trafficking to the state legislature.

"And got legislator authority to begin a full-time human trafficking unit because you're talking about the same people,” he said. “If they are moving people, they’re moving weapons, they’re moving drugs. They're moving anything for profit."

Stewart said she makes sure to be a voice for the victims.

"We really want to get with you to get back on your feet get you healthy again, make sure that you have a great life ahead of you, that this is in the past and it does not define who you are now and who you will become,” she said.

In a press release, OBN officials said the initiative will be crucial at a time when some victims are afraid to come forward.

“Human Trafficking presents several investigative challenges,” said OBN Director Donnie Anderson.  “This includes language barriers, cultural biases toward government or law enforcement, and the victims’ fear of their assailant. Additionally, victims often do not believe they are victims or even know where to turn for help.  But, through this initiative, we will let victims know they can safely speak out and recovery resources are available.”

For more information, click here .

OBN's human trafficking hotline is (855) 617-2288.