Iowa DPS launching study on human trafficking at Iowa State Fair
The Iowa Department of Public Safety is starting a new study to determine if there is a problem with human trafficking at the fair and other large Iowa events.
They also want to determine if the crimes take place at the fair, or at areas around the fairgrounds.
They define it as sex or labor through force, fraud or coercion.
"We get information about large events being a draw for human trafficking. And that may or may not be the case. So we're actually looking into that right now," said Ray Fiedler of the Iowa Office to Combat Human Trafficking.
There are some telltale signs of human trafficking ISP says to look out for. For victims, they may be with someone that doesn't let them do a lot of talking.
"You may have someone that may talk for the victim. The victim may not do much talking. So you may have someone talking for them or the victim might not look you in the eye," Fiedler said.
Human trafficking suspects often try to lure victims with drugs, food or shelter. At an event like the state fair, they may try to lure a victim to locations where they can be alone.
Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate used the first day of the fair to raise awareness for human trafficking as well. Pate says to pay attention to your surroundings and if you see something, say something.
"And make sure you know where you're at and you know who you're with. But we're really asking to be the eyes and ears — a neighborhood watch concept here. If you see something that doesn't look right, we want you to let law enforcement know and let them sort it out," Pate said.
The Iowa Office to Combat Human Trafficking is encouraging tip calls or emails. Their number is 515-725-6630 and their email is humantrafficking@dps.state.ia.us.