Marion County

Ocala Police Department highlights human trafficking dangers

National Human Trafficking Hotline The organization that runs the National Human Trafficking Hotline is now in the hot seat with Congress. (WFTV Staff)

OCALA, Fla. — The Ocala Police Department emphasized the dangers of human trafficking during the Marion County Human Trafficking Task Force meeting yesterday.

During the meeting, Donna Guinn and Detective Crystal Bessette from the Ocala Police Department delivered a comprehensive presentation on human trafficking, including labor, child, and sex trafficking. They shared alarming statistics showing that Florida is third nationwide for human trafficking cases, with Marion County ranking third among 11 neighboring counties.

During yesterday’s Marion County Human Trafficking Task Force meeting, Donna Guinn and Detective Crystal Bessette from the Ocala Police Department delivered an important presentation on the risks innocent victims encounter.

The presentation was designed to teach attendees how to recognize human trafficking and to clarify common misconceptions. The Ocala Police Department emphasized the importance of community awareness in fighting trafficking.

Participants were also reminded about available resources, such as the Human Trafficking Hotline. Transitions Life Center contributed to the event by providing a coffee cart, adding a friendly community element.

The Ocala Police Department worked to spread awareness about human trafficking, which is such an important issue in our community. They’re also gearing up for the upcoming task force meeting, so stay connected as they continue their dedicated fight against trafficking in Marion County.

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Angel Green

Angel Green, WFTV.com

Angel Green is a Content Creator for WFTV.com.

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