DA's Office Unveils Billboard Campaign in Fight Against Human Trafficking

ALAMEDA COUNTY, CA — Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley's office announced Thursday a billboard campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking. In a collaborative effort with Clear Channel Outdoor, county prosecutors said the billboards will directly confront the buyers of child sex trafficking victims and appear on roadways and in neighborhoods throughout Alameda County.

Coinciding with National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the campaign marks the third year in a row in which the county is utilizing billboards to help create awareness of the commercial sexual exploitation of
children.

Bruce Qualls, Vice President of Real Estate and Government Affairs for Clear Channel Outdoor Americas San Francisco/Oakland, said in a statement, "Our billboards are seen by thousands of people every day, and we
are proud to work on this effort to keep our children, families, and communities safe and to join the fight to end human trafficking."

In addition to widespread awareness and engagement, the district attorney's office hopes to make clear the fact that men must also partner in the effort to stop commercial sexual exploitation. The District Attorney's office said without people willing to pay for sex, traffickers have no incentive to lure vulnerable men, woman and children into the illegal sex trade.

"One clear fact is that the singular driving force behind sex trafficking is demand," O'Malley said in a statement. O'Malley said she remains dedicated to fighting the epidemic and hopes to engage more people in joining the fight to stop the crime.

By Bay City News

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