Oklahoma fight against human trafficking: progress, challenges and support

Trafficking in people remains a serious problem and mostly under -rated in Oklahoma, which affects hundreds of people, many of them being vulnerable to operation. Experts and survivors demand to increase awareness and proactive measures to solve this increasing problem.

Applying the law that provides training to observe traffic signs

As part of the efforts to combat traffic, local law enforcement forces carry out community training sessions to help people recognize traffic signs and understand how to support victims. Recognizing warning signs can be the first step in helping someone get rid of a life.

The story of a survivor

Kelli Craig says he was trafficked from the moment she was a teenager, but after gained her freedom, she began to share her story to give others hope and a way to escape.

The story of Kelli Craig: the journey of a survivor

“People need to know that human trafficking is happening, even in our own courts here, in Tulsa,” said Craig

Kelli’s experiences are awful. It was trafficked not once, but three times, starting with adolescence. During this time, she was taken to various locations, including hotels, where she was exploited.

“I was only taken to different hotels and different places. The third time was when I was at a local church, ”said Craig.

Recognizing the signs of human trafficking

Kelli is now focused on sensitizing on community traffic. She emphasizes how important it is for people to recognize signs that someone can fight or control. It urges others to look at changes of behavior, isolation of friends and family and signs of physical or emotional abuse.

“Bring awareness in our communities of faith, in jobs, to all our intersections, so that we can bring others to freedom,” said Craig.

Experts weigh: traffickers are often close to victims

Kevin Metcalf, with the working group for trafficking in Oklahoma, explains that many victims of traffic are manipulated or constrained by people who trust, including romantic partners and even family members.

“Oklahoma has his challenges, but I think we are really about to drive the road,” said Metcalf.

Metcalf emphasizes that it is crucial to the victims to present and testify, because their stories are essential for criminal prosecution and justice.

“I really depended that the victims had advanced and testified,” said Metcalf.

A survivor became a lawyer: Kelli Craig’s mission

Kelli is now working for family and children’s services, where they plead for those still trapped in the traffic cycle. It emphasizes the importance of support and helps survivors find their voice.

“I went from victim to victorious. I am not what happened to me and I think this is important. Now I am able to come with and help other people and offer them the space they need. It doesn’t have to be a list. You have a voice you can use and we will be here to support you during this process, ”said Craig.

Resources for victims of human trafficking

The Oklahoma narcotics office has set up a phone line for people to provide support and help for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in danger, help is just a phone call.

The Oklahoma narcotics office has a telephone trafficking line, and this number is 855-617-2288.

2023 convictions highlight progress in Oklahoma fight against traffic

Oklahoma’s state made progress in his fight against human trafficking in 2023. A total of 12 people were convicted for sex traffic last year, signaling progress in the fight against this hidden epidemic.

For more information and resources on human trafficking, please visit the Task Fabric Force website for Oklahoma people.