The Ohio Department of Public Safety has taken a significant stride in its fight against human trafficking by selecting a highly experienced professional to lead the Governor’s Human Trafficking Task Force. Kelli Cary, a seasoned veteran in anti-human trafficking campaigns, has been appointed by Director Andy Wilson to spearhead the state’s efforts in this crucial area.
Cary brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in combating human trafficking to Ohio, having recently led AncoraTN, a company dedicated to preventing human trafficking. Her previous work in Ohio at RAHAB Ministries, the Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center, and the Salvation Army, where she worked tirelessly to assist victims of human trafficking, has prepared her well for this role.
Ohioans have the opportunity to check if they are entitled to a portion of the $4 billion in unclaimed funds currently available in the state. Another chance to do so is coming soon.
According to Director Wilson, having Kelli on board will ensure that the victims of human trafficking in Ohio receive the necessary support and services to continue their healing journey. Kelli will be responsible for overseeing all of the human trafficking programmatic assistance that the Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) provides and collaborating with the 15 state agencies that make up the statewide task force to ensure that victims receive a continuum of care. With her experience, Kelli is well-equipped to handle this crucial role.
The Governor’s commitment to eradicating human trafficking in Ohio has led to the recruitment of a highly strategic candidate who aligns with this mission. To further this cause, the government has allocated a record-breaking $9 million in the state’s operational budget. This fund will not only provide support for local and state programs, but also facilitate the expansion of the task force to ensure a comprehensive approach to victim care, prevention, and prosecution.
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Kathy Chen has also benefitted from the budget as she has been appointed as a Special Population Anti-Traffic Specialist. Her key responsibility is to bust illegal massage businesses that are often used as a cover-up for human trafficking operations.
Cary stated that Ohio stands out from other states due to its dedicated resources and position in combatting illicit massage businesses. He expressed that Kathy’s expertise and success in her work in California will greatly benefit the various communities in Ohio, whether they are in rural, suburban, or urban areas, that are currently struggling with eradicating illicit massage activities.
Centerville is taking steps to address concerns about the rapid growth of convenience stores and gas stations in the area. A new moratorium has been put in place, specifically targeting these types of businesses. The hope is that this will give the city time to assess the impact that these businesses are having on the community and to come up with a plan for managing their growth in the future. This move has been met with both support and opposition from residents and business owners alike.
Since her appointment in January, Chen has been actively working towards rebuilding relationships with local task forces and resource providers. This is a crucial step in taking a comprehensive approach to address crimes effectively. The task force’s success depends on the coordination between law enforcement, victim services, and culturally tailored programs.
In February, Governor DeWine reaffirmed Ohio’s unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive support to survivors of human trafficking by announcing an additional $4.6 million in funding for victim care organizations. This investment is a testament to Ohio’s commitment to creating a safer and more equitable environment for all citizens. With these new resources and positions, Ohio is laying the groundwork for a coordinated response to combat human trafficking.
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