© 2025 WEKU
NPR for Northern, Central and Eastern Kentucky
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Join WEKU's 1850 campaign for the future! 1,850 new supporters, each giving $10 monthly to keep WEKU strong. Update: 1,557 supporters to reach the goal! Click here to support WEKU!

Lt Governor addresses human trafficking concerns ahead of Kentucky Derby

Ky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman addressing concerns about human trafficking ahead of Kentucky Derby
Gov. Andy Beshear Youtube
Ky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman addressing concerns about human trafficking ahead of Kentucky Derby

Kentuckians are getting ready for the Kentucky Derby.

Derby Week brings thousands of visitors to the commonwealth, and some are worried about human trafficking risks.

During this week's Team Kentucky update, Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman said there are many warning signs people can look for to identify victims.

“Trafficking victims may look malnourished or nervous, they may avoid eye contact, they may stay silent or look afraid to speak, or someone else may be coaching them on what to say. They may have bruises or other signs of emotional abuse, and they may not have access to their IDs or income.”

Coleman said people need to be on the lookout for human trafficking.

“If you suspect a child may be involved in the commercial sex trade, you have a legal duty to report your concerns to the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services or DCBS at 1-877-KY-Safe-1 and to local law enforcement.”

Coleman said it is important that if anyone sees something, they should say something.

Information for the Human Trafficking Hotline
Gov. Andy Beshear Youtube
Information for the Human Trafficking Hotline

Stan Ingold is WEKU's News Director. He has worked in public broadcasting for 18 years, starting at Morehead State Public Radio before spending the past 10 years at Alabama Public Radio. Stan has been honored with numerous journalism awards for his public radio reporting.
WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.
Related Content