Attorney General Austin Knudsen and Governor Greg Gianforte marked Human Trafficking Prevention Month by urging Montanans to recognize the signs of human trafficking and report any suspected activity to combat the crime.
Human trafficking, a form of modern slavery, involves traffickers—often tied to organized criminal networks—exploiting adults or children for labor or commercial sex.
In 2024, the Montana Department of Justice tackled 129 human trafficking-related cases, opening 21 investigations and submitting many for prosecution. The department also conducted four targeted operations in Missoula, Miles City, Helena, and Bozeman. These operations resulted in eight arrests for patronizing a prostitute, two individuals charged with sex trafficking and money laundering, and the recovery of several survivors.
Progress in combatting trafficking has been bolstered by House Bill 112, legislation drafted and supported by Knudsen’s office during the 2023 Legislative Session. The law increased penalties for traffickers and those purchasing sex, expanded the definition of human trafficking, and provided prosecutors with additional tools to pursue cases. It has also strengthened efforts to combat the sexual exploitation of children and other vulnerable victims.
Attorney General Knudsen has also prioritized awareness and education. In 2024, his office launched a human trafficking prevention curriculum aimed at Montana students, featuring insights from survivors and investigators. Additionally, Knudsen has enhanced training for county attorneys, Montana Highway Patrol officers, and cadets at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy.
In 2025, Knudsen will co-host the GRIT Conference in Bozeman, bringing together experts from across the Rocky Mountain region to address rural challenges and discuss strategies for combating trafficking and exploitation.
Governor Gianforte also proclaimed January 2025 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month and January 11, 2025, as Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Montana. The proclamation underscores the state’s commitment to ending this “despicable crime” and holding traffickers accountable.
Montana officials continue to call on residents to remain vigilant, educate themselves about the signs of human trafficking, and report suspicious activity to help protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
By: DNU staff