Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2024, $686,812)
The Lake County Human Trafficking Task Force (the Task Force) is co-led by law enforcement partner the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office (LCSAO) and victim service provider Lake County Crisis Center, DBA A Safe Place (ASP). The Task Force serves Lake County, IL, which is located in the northeastern corner of Illinois, midway between the cities of Chicago and Milwaukee. The Task Force coordinates strategic county-wide efforts to reduce human trafficking, service the survivors of such crimes, and aggressively investigate and prosecute both sex and labor traffickers. A grant funded Task Force Coordinator manages activities, meetings, partnership growth and sustainability. The LCSAO conducts proactive investigations and prosecutions of sex and labor traffickers. ASP delivers wraparound OVC-approved direct services to human trafficking victims to help them achieve increased safety, independence, self-sufficiency and well-being.
Expected outcomes are: 1) enhanced training and education, 2) streamlined victim services, 3) community outreach and awareness, 4) proactive investigations, and 5) strengthened collaboration between law enforcement and legal professionals.