The Sarnia Police Service (SPS) is hoping to spread awareness and prevent the risk of human trafficking within the community by hosting a public event on Thursday, December 14.
A forum, held in partnership with the Sexual Assault Survivors' Centre and Sarnia-Lambton Rebound, will be held in the auditorium of Great Lakes Secondary School from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Cst. Nick McLean said the increased use of cell phones and social media has made it easier for traffickers to prey on others.
"Educating youth and caregivers is very important because this is no longer an issue associated to major cities like Toronto," he said.
"It could affect anyone of any age. We want kids or youth to understand what this is, as well as adults and caregivers to understand so everybody can be aware of the warning signs."
McLean said residents do not need to pre-register in order to attend the public forum.
The event will start with a presentation and then attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions.
"This presentation will touch on many topics including who is at risk for human trafficking, warning signs to look out for, where trafficking happens, criminal offences associated to human trafficking, as well as many other topics that we believe are important to discuss with the public," McLean said.
McLean said booths, set up by community partners, will also be at the site in order to provide information about local supports.
