January in Ventura County is now not only the start of a new year but also a call to action against the insidious crime of human trafficking, as the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office kicks off Human Trafficking Prevention Month. According to an announcement by the DA's office, the county is pledging its resolve to fight the global issue that also scars local communities. District Attorney Erik Nasarenko made the office's stance clear: "Our office is committed to ending human trafficking in Ventura County," emphasizing the urgency to "pursue justice for survivors while holding predators accountable."
The series of outreach initiatives, aimed at lifting the veil on this crime, invites public engagement through workshops, social media campaigns, and local school collaborations; with one key date being National Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 11, where folks are encouraged to don blue outfits, snap photos, and share their stance against human trafficking on social media. As reported by the Ventura County District Attorney's office, community members can further mark their calendars for events like the Soroptimist STOP Human Trafficking Awareness Day set for January 13, and a special panel hosted by Soroptimist Simi Valley earlier on January 11, featuring DA Erik Nasarenko among other dignitaries addressing human trafficking awareness.
To broaden understanding and support, the DA's office will hold a training titled "Empowerment Beyond Exploitation: Addressing Human Trafficking, Disability, and Accessing Resources" on January 29, where Deputy District Attorneys Rikole Kelly and Melissa McMurdo will discuss human trafficking's impact on individuals with disabilities, a particularly vulnerable group.
Alongside these preventive actions, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office commits to continuing support for human trafficking survivors, offering resources and aid through their victim advocates and service provider partnerships. Those in need of help or with suspicions of trafficking activities can reach out through emergency lines or learn more about the DA's efforts against human trafficking at the Human Trafficking page on their website.
