From 2008 to 2017, California had the most human trafficking cases reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline of any state.
Around the world it is estimated that more than 40 million people are enslaved today.
Almost one million people — mostly young girls — are trafficked against their will each year.
It is estimated that more than 20 million men, women and children around the world are victims of human trafficking with the U.S. a source, transit and destination country.
Transit can play a role in helping to stop human trafficking, considering the number of people using it 24 hours a day. SEPTA Police Chief Thomas Nestel was recently joined by representatives from local social service agencies and a former human trafficking victim to discuss signs of the crime, law enforcement efforts and how the public can help.
Transit officials are looking to train bus drivers to spot suspicious activity and implement a public awareness campaign.
The campaign includes brochures and posters on buses and trains, as well as training programs for employees to identify and help potential victims.