Central Ohio Today

State Representative Tracy Richardson has announced the launch of Ohio's first statewide human trafficking hotline. The hotline, accessible at 844-END-OHHT (844-363-6448), is designed to facilitate the reporting of suspected sex and labor trafficking cases directly to law enforcement. It aims to connect callers with professionals experienced in handling such cases.

"As an advocate for the end of human trafficking in Ohio, I’m happy to announce this hotline that can help save victim’s lives and catch these criminals in the act," said Richardson. "This around-the-clock resource to help law enforcement means giving victims the opportunity to break free from their captures. I encourage Ohioans to call. If you see something, say something."

The hotline operates continuously, managed by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). Criminal intelligence analysts at BCI evaluate incoming information and forward relevant intelligence to local law enforcement agencies or specialized units like human trafficking task forces under the attorney general’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission or BCI’s Special Victims Unit.

Richardson has also been instrumental in establishing January 11th as Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Ohio through legislation passed during the 134th General Assembly. She sponsors the Expanding Human Trafficking Justice Act, which seeks to aid victims by allowing them to expunge non-violent crimes from their records.