The Tri-County Human Trafficking Task Force’s first 2026 meeting in Summerville spotlighted the Lowcountry’s lead in South Carolina human trafficking reports, with Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties topping tips, victims, and cases. Advocates stress these numbers capture only a fraction of the issue, driven by strong public-private collaborations.
In 2025, the task force achieved a major win: 10 prosecuted cases across two local judicial circuits, up from zero the prior year. Leaders like co-chairs Lauren Knapp and Brooke Burris highlighted partnerships with jails, where victims are often misidentified as offenders—identifying 164 adult victims in the Tri-County from 2022-2025, including over 40 at Charleston County Jail alone.
Charleston County Councilman Jim McBride attended, calling for broader awareness: “It’s a very difficult problem to combat, and people don’t know how prevalent it is.” He emphasized uniting government, private industry, and communities against this national issue with local roots.
2026 Priorities and Calls to Action
The task force outlined data-driven legislative goals:
- Mandatory human trafficking training for healthcare professionals.
- A state RICO law to dismantle organized crime networks.
- Updates to South Carolina’s commercial sex code.
- Expanded childcare options to support victims.
Additional focuses include leadership development and child safety. Burris warned parents: phones are “adult devices” where traffickers recruit via apps—opt for child-appropriate tech and monitor usage. Knapp urged trusting instincts: “Educate yourself on the facts, not the myths,” and report suspicions.
Community involvement is key, as Burris noted: “This task force is only as strong as the community is strong.” For help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline: call 1-888-373-7888 or text “BEFREE” (233733).
This aligns with ongoing Lowcountry efforts in public safety and civic engagement—how can locals like those in nearby areas contribute, such as through awareness events or reporting tips?
