How Arkansas Police Are Taking Down Trafficking Operations Statewide
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) and the Arkansas Human Trafficking Council (AHTC) have done a great job in rescuing victims and hunting down the traffickers. But there is still more work to be done.
It's easy to think that this doesn't happen in our neighborhoods and towns. Unfortunately, it does.
Col. Mike Hagar, Arkansas Secretary of Public Safety and Director of ASP, said in a press release,
We are confronting human trafficking head-on in Arkansas. Through teamwork with law enforcement and victim service partners, we’re rescuing victims, holding offenders accountable, and strengthening our statewide response.
Victims Identified And Helped in Arkansas
In 2025, AHTC, local and state law enforcement brought down two victim-centered operations, one in Fort Smith and the other in West Memphis. They were able to make contact with 21 adults and offer them medical care, advocacy services, and needs assessments. Investigators also were able to identify 61 additional victims, bringing the total number of identified victims to 82.
Statewide reporting continues to show just how big this horrendous crime is in Arkansas. In 2025, the council received 110 reports of human trafficking. The Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline recorded 72 trafficking reports and 354 reports of sexual exploitation, many with youth involved.
Missing Children Recoveries Increase in Arkansas
As of January 1, 2026, Arkansas has 103 active missing-child cases involving individuals under the age of 18.
Attorney General Tim Griffin said,
Human trafficking impacts communities large and small, including here in Arkansas. If you see something, say something.
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Here is How to Report Suspected Human Trafficking in Arkansas
If you suspect Human Trafficking, you are encouraged to report the suspicious activity by emailing reportht@arkansas.gov or by dialing *277 on your mobile device to reach the Arkansas State Police.
Arkansas Law Enforcement Radio Codes and What They Mean
Gallery Credit: Jim Weaver