Previously Published in The Messenger
By Raheem Soto
Human trafficking isn’t just a distant issue—it’s happening in communities across the country, including right here in Suffolk County.
That’s why Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne (R-Patchogue) and Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. (D) are stepping up, bringing the fight directly to residents with an Anti-Trafficking Initiative on April 9 at the Patchogue-Medford Library from 6:00p.m. to 7:30p.m.
The event isn’t just another public meeting—it’s a call to action. The goal is to educate residents about the tactics traffickers use, empower communities to recognize warning signs and strengthen countywide cooperation between law enforcement, advocacy groups, and local government.
Many people think of human trafficking as something that only happens in big cities or overseas, but that’s far from the truth. Traffickers operate in suburban and rural communities, preying on the vulnerable—runaway teens, struggling single parents, immigrants with language barriers, and even young people lured through social media.
“My office and our County will do everything possible to protect our residents,” Thorne told The Messenger. “One of the most powerful tools we have is awareness. The more residents understand how these predators operate, the better we can protect our communities.”
While awareness is key, real change happens when law enforcement, local leaders, and the community work together. Suffolk County has already made significant strides in cracking down on trafficking operations by improving communication between government agencies and nonprofits, training first responders to recognize trafficking situations, and expanding victim support services.
Sheriff Toulon, a veteran law enforcement officer with decades of experience tackling organized crime, has been at the forefront of these efforts. His office has played a crucial role in uncovering trafficking networks and helping survivors find safety.
This isn’t a lecture—it’s a chance for the community to get involved. Experts in law enforcement, victim advocacy, and social services will be on hand to share real stories, discuss local trends, and offer actionable steps residents can take. Attendees will learn:
- How traffickers lure victims—from false job offers to online scams.
- What signs to look for in possible trafficking situations.
- How law enforcement is tackling the issue and what challenges remain.
- How residents can report suspicious activity and help protect potential victims.
Most importantly, this event will break down the stigma surrounding human trafficking. Many
victims don’t come forward because they fear judgment or retaliation. Creating a community that understands and supports survivors is crucial in breaking the cycle.
Increased internet usage, economic struggles, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have created a perfect storm for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals. Reports of trafficking cases have risen in recent years, and Suffolk County isn’t immune to the trend.
Lawmakers like Thorne and law enforcement leaders like Toulon recognize that waiting isn’t an option. They’re urging residents to show up, get informed, and take action.
“Every set of eyes and ears in the community makes a difference,” Thorne emphasized. “If we stay silent, we allow these criminals to keep operating in the shadows. But if we educate ourselves and stand together, we can stop them.”
The Anti-Trafficking Initiative is free and open to the public. Anyone interested in learning how to protect their family, support victims, or assist in law enforcement efforts should attend.
For more information, contact 631-854-1400 or email DominickS.Thorne@suffolkcountyny. gov.
The fight against human trafficking starts with awareness—but it doesn’t end there. It’s time for Suffolk County to take a stand.