Free Presentation on the Growing Problem of Human Trafficking in Tennessee

An agent from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation will conduct a presentation in Pigeon Forge on the growing problem of human trafficking in Tennessee and how to spot the warning signs.

Please join the Smoky Mountain Human Resources Association on Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 8 a.m. to hear a presentation by Special Agent Richard Stout of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation on the topic Human Sex Trafficking Awareness. The meeting will be held at the Pigeon Forge Community Center, 170 Community Center Drive in Pigeon Forge.

“Since we live and work in a tourism area, it is important for us to hear this vital information,” says Lois Sutton, president of the Smoky Mountain Human Resources Association.

According to the TBI website, human trafficking in Tennessee is the 2nd fastest growing criminal industry just behind drug trafficking. In 2014, the agency launched a public awareness campaign to inform the state about human trafficking and to talk about what can be done about it.

Stout has been a special agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation for 32 years. He has served in the Criminal Investigation Division, Special Investigations Unit and the Criminal Intelligence Unit. He has been highly recommended to the organization.

The event is open to the public and admission is free. Anyone interested in hearing this presentation is welcome to attend. Invite someone to come with you. No registration necessary. For questions, contact Lois Sutton, SMHRA president at 865-453-9061.

Photo: A Tennessee Bureau of Investigation billboard in Knoxville to raise awareness about Human Trafficking in Tennessee.