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Truckers take a stand against human trafficking

Posted at 5:55 PM, May 18, 2022
and last updated 2022-05-18 19:55:51-04

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah — Human trafficking is a $150 billion a year industry with more than 40-million victims.

The group, "Truckers Against Trafficking" is looking to not only educate people about the issue, but, to also do something about it. The "Freedom Drivers Project" rolled into West Valley City Wednesday morning with a 48-foot mobile exhibit.

The interactive exhibit tells the story of human trafficking and some of the dangers that come with it.

"It's not just one place where trafficking happens," said Brandy Belton, the Freedom Driver Project Director for Truckers Against Trafficking.

Justin Schiffman with GCR Tires & Service says they are partnering with Truckers Against Trafficking in hopes of bringing awareness to this issue.

"It quite prevalent and unfortunately it's more prevalent than what most people know about," said Schiffman.

Schiffman said Utah is a big crossroads of the west for the trucking industry.

"We do a lot with the truckers and with the truckers, they're the face out there for the U.S.," said Schiffman.

He says truckers are in every city and town across the country, which allows them to see a lot of what is going on all day, every day.

"They're always outgoing, so if they can see this, you know what to look for," said Schiffman.

They hope education and awareness will help truckers and others see trafficking if it's happening around them.

"If you happen to be out there and you see something, we just ask that you report it because you never know when you can save someone's life by just making a phone call," said Belton.

Belton says the trailer is now headed to its next event down in New Mexico.