MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) – Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen has partnered with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to launch Alabama Combats Trafficking (ACT), a statewide program enlisting local businesses in the fight against human trafficking.
Through ACT, businesses can apply to join the effort at www.sos.alabama.gov/act/get-involved. Participating businesses will be listed on the Secretary of State’s website and receive training materials with tips for identifying and stopping trafficking. They will also receive a decal to display, signaling their commitment to the cause.
“I am encouraging all Alabama businesses to participate in this important initiative and encourage all Alabamians to share the ACT website and flyer on their social media,” Allen said. “We are bringing the fight against human trafficking to the forefront of minds and hearts across our state.”
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said the program will help the public become “powerful partners” in spotting victims and alerting law enforcement.
The initiative has also gained support from the Alabama District Attorneys Association and the Alabama Sheriffs Association.
“Greater awareness leads to increased reporting, allowing prosecutors and law enforcement to hold those who commit these crimes accountable,” said Lyle Harmon, St. Clair County District Attorney.
Huey “Hoss” Mack, executive director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association, added, “One phone call may save many lives. This provides another valuable tool to address this most dangerous issue in all of our communities.”
A sample of the ACT decal can be viewed here. More information about the Secretary of State’s office is available at www.sos.alabama.gov.
