This course, presented by retired Connecticut State Trooper Art Walkley, offers an in-depth overview of human trafficking in Connecticut. Walkley, who has extensive experience in major crime detection and worked with the FBI and Homeland Security, currently works with the Southington Police Department in specialized investigations of prostitution, human trafficking, narcotics, and firearms trafficking. The course, lasting about an hour, covers various aspects of human trafficking including legislation, the prevalence and types of human trafficking in the state, pathways to victimization, and the identification of traffickers and buyers. It delves into the devastating personal stories of victims, the economic scale of the crime, and the complexities involved in identifying and supporting victims. The course also addresses the role of the internet in facilitating trafficking and offers guidance for law enforcement on investigation techniques, victim support, and legal responses. Crucially, it highlights the importance of understanding the nuanced differences between trafficking victims and prostitutes, especially in the case of minors, and emphasizes the need for a coordinated, compassionate approach to tackle this serious issue.
Instructor: Art Walkley