WARREN COUNTY, N.J. — The Warren County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month on Wednesday, calling on residents to raise awareness and help prevent human trafficking in the community.
Commissioners noted that New Jersey is a major corridor in the Northeast used to facilitate and transport victims of human trafficking. While the state created a Human Trafficking Unit in February 2023 to address an increase in cases, commissioners said eliminating the crime will require continued education and vigilance across communities.
“The best thing we can do is bring awareness to it,” Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla said.
Commissioner Jason J. Sarnoski said it is important for residents to learn how to recognize the signs of human trafficking and remain alert to suspicious activity.
Commissioner James R. Kern said Warren County’s location makes it vulnerable, noting that two interstates run through the county and that major airports, including Newark Liberty International Airport and Lehigh Valley International Airport, are nearby. With the World Cup expected to bring visitors from around the world to New Jersey, Kern said residents should remember that “if you see something, say something.”
Warren County Prosecutor Jessica L. Cardone accepted the proclamation on behalf of her office and thanked the commissioners for highlighting the issue. She said human trafficking can occur in any community and affect people of any age.
“It can really happen anywhere,” Cardone said, adding that human trafficking relies on isolating victims and a lack of public awareness. She encouraged residents to learn the warning signs and speak up when they suspect something may be wrong.
County officials said raising awareness and encouraging reporting are key steps in preventing human trafficking and supporting victims.
