This is an atrocious crime, and if we are going to end this illicit practice in our state, it will take all of us working together.
It is important to remember that human trafficking can happen anywhere. This form of modern-day slavery knows no bounds, and claims victims of all ages, sexes and demographics.
In recognition of the month, I am highlighting resources and calling on Floridians to learn the signs of human trafficking and how to alert law enforcement to suspicious behavior.
Signs to look out for include a person who:
· Seems to be under the control of another individual;
· Responds as if coached or lets someone else speak for them;
· Acts fearful, anxious or paranoid;
· Displays branding scars, burns or tattoos; and
· Appears malnourished, disoriented or confused, or shows other signs of physical abuse.
For more information, visit YouCanStopHT.com.
If you suspect that someone is being trafficked, contact local law enforcement immediately. Floridians can also call the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s tip line at 1(800) 342-0820 and the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1(888) 373-7888.
By working together to end trafficking, we can rescue victims, save lives and build a Stronger, Safer Florida.
In The News
Florida attorney general combats 'smash-and-grab' robberies, organized retail crime, FOX Business
Ashley Moody, lawmakers team up to fight organized retail theft, Florida Politics
Moody announces efforts to help law enforcement, prosecutors dismantle retail theft rings, News 4 JAX
Buyer Beware: AG warns of fake COVID-19 testing kits, sites being found online, CBS 10 Tampa Bay
Attorney General warns Floridians to be wary of potential COVID-19 testing scams, Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Florida attorney general warns against New Year’s resolution scams, ABC 9 Orlando
Protecting Floridians
CONSUMER ALERT: Beware of New Year’s Resolution Scams
Attorney General Ashley Moody is cautioning Floridians undertaking New Year’s resolutions to be aware of scammers that may target those with big goals. Many resolutions are commonly shared among citizens, allowing fraudsters to easily predict targets to rip off, ruining resolutions before they even begin. Attorney General Moody advises Floridians to be alert when purchasing memberships, products or services to help achieve common resolutions.
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “The beginning of a new year is a popular time to set goals, but do your research before signing up for memberships or purchasing products to help you succeed. Scammers may try to exploit the situation to sell unproven products or just flat-out steal your personal or financial information.” Read More
Attorney General Moody Partners with Legislators to Target Organized Retail Theft
Attorney General Ashley Moody is working with state legislators to address organized retail theft in Florida. Attorney General Moody held a news conference with lawmakers in Hialeah to announce legislative efforts to help law enforcement and prosecutors dismantle retail theft crime rings. The announcement comes one week before Florida’s 2022 Legislative Session begins.
Organized retail theft is on the rise nationwide, and Attorney General Moody is dedicated to ensuring Florida remains ahead of the trend to prevent retail crime waves. This session, Attorney General Moody is working with legislative leaders to ensure state laws are effective in helping prosecutors dismantle organized crime rings.
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “We’ve seen the damage and disorder caused by brazen criminals across the country through terrifying smash-and-grab robberies, and we must continue to innovate to stay ahead of this national crime trend. Last month, I launched FORCE to bolster our efforts to stop and prevent organized retail crime in Florida and this legislative session, I will partner with state legislators to make sure our laws are effective in helping law enforcement and prosecutors stop retail theft gangs from targeting our stores.” Read More
Events
This week, Attorney General Ashley Moody announced legislative efforts to address organized retail theft crime in a news conference in Hialeah. Attorney General Moody is partnering with legislators ahead of the upcoming 2022 Legislative Session to ensure state laws are effective in helping law enforcement and prosecutors dismantle retail theft crime rings.
Attorney General Moody with Hialeah Mayor Esteban “Steve” Bovo.
