January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month

SOMERSET COUNTY, Md. – January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and local officials are looking to help those who face these issues. Human trafficking is the use of force or coercion to compel a person into labor or commercial sex against their will.

Anyone can experience this, regardless of race, age, or gender. Typically, though, migrants, people of color, and children are more in danger.

You can look out for signs like living in isolated or inhumane conditions and not having control over your passport or documents.

Sheriff Ronnie Howard of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office said community members should be cautious of who they meet with.

“Always avoid meeting someone by yourself that you don’t know, and always have someone with you at all times if you can.”

If you want to learn more, you can call the Somerset County Health Department at (443-523-1700)