Northern Tier News

Human trafficking is a rapidly increasing crime in the United States, with children often falling victim through online platforms. To address this issue, Representatives Clint Owlett and Tina Pickett are organizing seminars aimed at educating parents and community members on protecting children from digital exploitation.

The seminars will take place on Wednesday, April 2, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Towanda Area Junior/Senior High School, and on Thursday, April 3, during the same hours at the Wellsboro Fire Department Annex. Wyoming County District Attorney Joe Peters and Korrin Moon of Lantern Rescue will lead the discussions. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday will also participate in the Wellsboro session.

Representative Owlett highlighted that human trafficking often involves victims who appear to lead normal lives but are being manipulated online. "When most people hear about human trafficking, they think about abduction, smuggling or confinement, but that is not the most common scenario we see here in the Commonwealth," he stated.

Pickett emphasized the importance of understanding modern human trafficking to safeguard children. "Parents, grandparents, caregivers and members of the community need to understand exactly what human trafficking looks like today so we can protect our kids and put a stop to this heinous crime," she said.

The sessions are primarily intended for adults due to sensitive content; however, teenagers may attend with their parents to foster awareness and dialogue on self-protection.

RSVPs for attendance can be made online or by contacting Owlett’s Wellsboro office or Pickett’s Towanda office via phone.