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Most of us have seen the signs posted in public restrooms, or flyers distributed at large events in an attempt to give victims of human trafficking a way to get help. And for the most part, people glance at those things and assume the messages have nothing to do with them.
The truth is we must all be vigilant, watching for indicators that should be reported or a person who needs help. It sounds as though that is exactly what happened in Pickerington, Ohio, where a business is being investigated for suspicion of acting as a front for human trafficking.
"Shortly after they opened is when we started receiving some complaints and some information," Pickerington Police Chief Tod Cheney said of the business. "They saw some signs of possibly human trafficking type activity going on within the business." Imagine if those who saw concerning indicators had not contacted authorities.
In this case, authorities say it does not appear there were any children involved. But human trafficking and associated crimes can target those of any age, in any community.