WETHERSFIELD, CT - The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Law Enforcement Unit (DMV LEU) and the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF), in partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Homeland Security, and the Connecticut State Police, is intensifying its ongoing commitment to combat human trafficking during the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) national five-day Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative, taking place January 12-16.
During that time, information packets will be distributed at weigh stations throughout Connecticut to commercial truck drivers. These materials provide guidance on recognizing trafficking indicators and reporting suspected activity.
Truck drivers serve as a vital national network of observers on America’s roadways. Their ability to notice unusual or concerning situations makes them an essential partner in identifying and reporting possible trafficking cases. This initiative strengthens that role while reinforcing Connecticut’s statewide commitment to public safety.
“I am proud of our agency’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking, and appreciative of all the truck drivers for being the vigilant eyes and ears on the road. Your awareness and readiness to report suspicious activity makes a difference in our fight against trafficking,” said DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera. “It’s essential that we continue to collaborate and share information in real time to eliminate human trafficking.”
The Department Motor Vehicles efforts coincide with the efforts being made by the Department of Children and Families Human Anti-Trafficking Response Team (HART) throughout the month of January. HART is a statewide, multidisciplinary initiative designed to protect children and teens from trafficking. Led by DCF and supported by law enforcement, medical professionals, and community organizations, HART’s mission includes:
• Identifying and responding to potential child trafficking
• Promoting public awareness and education
• Assisting victims in recovery
• Monitoring statewide anti-trafficking efforts
• Supporting mandatory reporting requirements
• Coordinating agencies and providers to ensure rapid, effective response
“Protecting children and youth from exploitation through trafficking is a core responsibility of our department and we work every day with law enforcement, medical providers, educators and other community stakeholders to identify victims, support recovery, and investigate and hold traffickers accountable,” said Interim DCF Commissioner Susan Hamilton. “Initiatives like this, where state sister agencies and federal law enforcement partners work hand-in-hand, are critical to increasing awareness, strengthening reporting, and ensuring that no child in Connecticut is overlooked or left without help.”
FMCSA plays a critical part in enabling these efforts by funding and supporting outreach activities conducted in conjunction with the commercial vehicle safety inspection program.
This collaborative initiative demonstrates the strong cooperation between state and federal partners working together to protect vulnerable individuals and stop human trafficking in all forms.
If you suspect someone to be involved or a victim of a human trafficking situation, contact:
- Minors 📲 Call CT DCF Careline: 1-800-842-2288
- Adults📲 Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888
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