Garfield hosts training to recognize sex trafficking

GARFIELD — The Garfield City Council is hosting a community training for those interested in recognizing and being aware of human sex trafficking in the local area at the Community Center on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 6-8 p.m.

In a letter to community members, the town of Garfield said many human trafficking awareness programs focus on metropolitan areas, and rural sex trafficking looks different. “Being able to recognize human trafficking in rural areas is essential for reporting it and getting law enforcement involved effectively,” the letter said.

The town of Garfield emphasizes that when community members are educated about what they might be witnessing, they are more likely to report human trafficking.

There to present will be licensed clinical social worker Paula Barthlmess, who has been involved in human trafficking outreach to victims and educating rural community members in Idaho for over seven years. Barthelmess has a non-profit business, Community Outreach Behavioral Services, and will present with a police detective.

The training is inappropriate for anyone under 16, and those who wish to attend must RSVP to ensure their seat. To RSVP, call the town of Garfield at (509)- 635-1604 or email Garfield-town@completebbs.com.