The Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention has been awarded a $1.6 million grant by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) to create the Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force in partnership with Louisiana State Police.
“Those who traffic and exploit innocent people will find no refuge in Louisiana,” said Governor Landry. “We will continue to hold traffickers accountable, protect victims, and give our law enforcement the tools they need as we work to make our communities safer. I’d like to thank acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and President Trump for their continued dedication to Louisiana.”
The task force aims to strengthen investigations into human trafficking and support Louisiana law enforcement agencies through training and technical assistance, interagency coordination, and victim service collaboration. The task force will be operated by Louisiana State Police, as the subrecipient of the grant funding.
“Louisiana State Police is committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to rescue victims, identify offenders, and combat exploitation and trafficking,” said Colonel Frank Besson, Louisiana State Police Superintendent. “We are grateful to receive this funding, which will strengthen training, improve coordination among our law enforcement partners, and enhance our response to human trafficking across Louisiana. Protecting our most vulnerable citizens remains one of our highest priorities, and we will continue working tirelessly to hold offenders accountable while ensuring the safety of Louisiana’s children.”
“For years, Louisiana has led the nation in its response to human trafficking. We have enacted strong laws, invested in victim services, and expanded training and awareness,” said Mary Kate Andrepont, Executive Director of the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention. “This grant funding marks another step in our state’s trailblazing path. The Louisiana Human Trafficking Task Force will set a new standard for victim-centered investigations and multidisciplinary collaboration. We are excited to launch this new initiative with Louisiana State Police and grateful for the support of U.S. DOJ in advancing our shared mission to deliver justice to victims.”
Human Trafficking Prevention is a key part to keeping Louisiana safe. Learn more about human trafficking and resources in your community at humantrafficking.la.gov.