Wisconsin State Patrol Officers Take Action Against Human Trafficking

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Division of State Patrol joins organizations across the nation this January to raise awareness about human trafficking and what can be done to help prevent the crime and protect victims in our state.

Human trafficking is a felony crime that involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to manipulate a victim for the purposes of sexual exploitation, forced labor or services against their will.

Trafficking is often a hidden crime that happens in urban and rural communities across the country, including in Wisconsin. Anyone can be a victim, all ages and genders. Wisconsin State Patrol officers are trained in recognizing the indicators of human trafficking, what questions to ask and how to connect a victim with available social services.

“Transportation systems are vulnerable to human trafficking, so every one of our officers knows what to look for and how respond if they suspect someone is involved in the crime or is a victim,” Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan said. “We also maintain strong partnerships and provide training to other organizations and industries to help combat the issue and teach others how to identify human trafficking.”

Working together to stop human trafficking

WisDOT has an important role in preventing human trafficking. The Wisconsin DMV requires commercial driver license schools to include instruction in the recognition and prevention of human trafficking, and all new interstate companies must complete an educational New Entrant Safety Audit that includes a review of human trafficking information. Human trafficking resources are also provided in driving handbooks and at DMV locations and safety rest areas throughout the state.

The Wisconsin State Patrol enforces human trafficking laws and works with commercial motor vehicle drivers to encourage them to recognize the signs of trafficking and report suspicious activity. In 2025, the Wisconsin State Patrol conducted nearly 38,000 motor carrier inspections, each proving an opportunity to educate drivers on ways they can help stop human trafficking. This month, the Wisconsin State Patrol will also join the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative. From Jan. 12-16, 2026, officers will connect with commercial motor vehicle drivers and provide educational materials to let them know what to do if they suspect someone is being trafficked.

Identifying trafficking

All Wisconsinites can have an impact to prevent human trafficking in our communities. Recognizing key indicators of trafficking can help save a life. The following could be signs someone is vulnerable:

• A sudden or dramatic change in behavior
• Becoming disconnected from family, friends or community organizations
• Signs of mental or physical abuse or deprivation of basic needs
• Indication of being coached on what to say or not in control of their own decisions

If you encounter a situation you suspect is human trafficking, do not approach anyone involved. Gather as much information as possible and contact local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. If you think there might be immediate danger or are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

Read more about the indicators of human trafficking and find other resources in Wisconsin here: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/humantrfkng.aspx

View the January Law of the Month video and news release online: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/law/lom.aspx

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.