Reaching Ohio’s Vulnerable Populations: Human Trafficking Screens in State Institutions
Sophia Papadimos & Sandy Sieben | September 22 | 4:00-5:00 PM | Room 2592
The Governor’s Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force was created in 2012 to help exploited children and adults facing dire circumstances in Ohio. An initial recommendation of the Task Force was for the state to develop a standardized screening process for victims of human trafficking to be used by state agencies providing direct services. As a result, Ohio implemented a human trafficking screening tool in state prisons, state psychiatric hospitals, and juvenile correctional facilities. The screening tool, along with its guide, were created to provide state agencies with a tool to be used to identify victims of human trafficking and make referrals for appropriate services. The guide provides staff with an explanation on how to administer the screening tool and tips for using the tool. Since the implementation of the screening tool, over 50,000 screens have been conducted. In 2016, The University of Toledo was contracted to assess the screening tool and develop recommendations regarding strengths and weaknesses.
Presentation Objectives:
- Describe the screening process in state-run facilities and how it varies between youth and adults who are incarcerated or hospitalized
- Describe the treatment and services that are available for victims who are incarcerated when identified as a victim of trafficking
- Share The University of Toledo’s findings and address next steps moving forward