Stop Human Trafficking in the Conejo Valley

Stop Human Trafficking in the Conejo Valley

A Conejo Valley Interfaith

Education Forum

On September 12th, TAE hosted an education forum sponsored by Temple Adat Elohim, Ascension Lutheran Church and the Conejo Valley Women’s Interfaith Network. Over 150 people attended this informative evening. Speakers shared information about Human Trafficking in general and about its presence here in Ventura County. The evening began with remarks from Assembly woman Jaqui Irwin and Rabbi Barry Diamond. The panel shared their experience and knowledge that included:

  • Human trafficking is modern-day slavery and involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion for profit.
  • Human Trafficking (both sex and labor trafficking) is happening right here in the Conejo Valley.
  • The majority of those trafficked are U.S. Citizens.
  • If you are suspicious about the work circumstances of someone you see, contact the authorities.

The Panel included:

  • Moderator: Eric Harrison, President & CEO United Way of Ventura County
  • Detectives Nick Odenath and Aaron Grass, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Special Crimes Unit
  • Christan Perez, HEART Program at Interface Children & Family Services
  • Vicki Frederick, Community Relations Coordinator, Forever Found
  • Andrea Haney, Senior Deputy District Attorney, Ventura County