This week, a "hidden crime" not usually associated with Door or Kewaunee counties is getting statewide attention.  Governor Tony Evers declared January as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. The Department of Children and Families and local law enforcement are encouraging residents to educate themselves and their loved ones on the signs of human trafficking to help combat this crime in Wisconsin.  The Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative is underway, and Door County Sheriff's Department Professional Standards Captain Carl Waterstreet says that human trafficking is a transient business that can still impact the area. He says it is sometimes viewed as a victimless crime, which is not true. Most avenues of human sex trafficking are being done online but can be identified by certain tattoos and unusual behavior and actions when you encounter someone in public.  Although Door County is not a hub for human trafficking, it can still be readily available, especially during the prime summer tourist months, according to Waterstreet.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security estimates human trafficking globally as a multibillion-dollar industry, with an estimated 27 million victims. You can find tips on how you can help prevent Human Trafficking with this link.