Macomb County Task Force Takes Aim At Human Trafficking​

MACOMB COUNTY, MI — Macomb County has launched a website to promote its human trafficking task force as the county looks for additional community partners.

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said in a news release that the task force is working to eliminate human trafficking activities while advocating for survivors across the county because "that' s how we ensure no one is left behind.”

“Countless women, men and children are affected by human trafficking every day and our goal with MCAT is to do everything possible to prevent and prosecute these crimes, while supporting survivors,” Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said in a news release. “Anyone could be the victim of human trafficking. So MCAT takes a comprehensive approach to its efforts by involving nonprofits, schools, faith-based organizations and law enforcement groups in its advocacy and activities. The only way we can stop these heinous crimes is by working together."

Officials said the task force uses a three-branched focus to provide education, communication and direction to all possible responders in Macomb County and the community at large so they can investigate and successfully prosecute cases of human trafficking to the fullest extent of the law and support survivors as they transition into restorative lifestyles.

“Human Trafficking is a growing problem throughout the U.S.,” Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham said in a statement. “Victims of this crime are often hesitant to speak up as they do not always realize they are being victimized or do not know how to move forward. Our office is committed to investigating every report and/or tip that is presented to us and conducting special sting operations targeting human trafficking criminals. Working as a multiple agency task force will make our efforts stronger and more visible throughout our County. We look forward to partnering with other local agencies and organizations to provide resources to victims in an effort to end this monstrous crime.”

In launching the new website, MCAT said it hopes to involve more partners and provide additional training and information for people on the ground in their communities.

“Both labor and sex trafficking are happening in Macomb County,” said Karen Hanks, trafficking victim assistance at Bethany Christian Services. “Survivors of trafficking come from all walks of life including different genders, ages, nationalities and socioeconomic backgrounds. The needs of each survivor are unique and complex – no single organization can meet all of them. That’s why it’s so important for faith-based organizations, community-based non-profits, law enforcement and government to work together to help survivors recover and thrive.”

People or organizations looking to join MCAT can complete a survey created by the MCAT Services Provider Subcommittee, officials said. The survey can be found here.

“Ultimately, the county wants to get to a point where responders know all of the resources available to deal with the criminals involved in trafficking and the survivors affected by these activities,” Deputy County Executive Vicki Wolber said. “We want to ensure that the victims get the help that they need and that they are not unnecessarily punished and victimized again. We want to break the cycle.”