Traverse Project

More than 200 individuals were involved in simultaneous raids on Oct. 18 at nine Houston-area bars suspected of being involved in human trafficking. The joint action resulted in TABC suspending the nine businesses’ liquor licenses, and 84 suspected victims being identified. “Human trafficking is a stain on our society, and it’s unfortunately more prevalent than most Texans realize.” Four arrests were made during the raids. They all received various charges related to human trafficking, prostitution, promotion of prostitution and aggravated promotion of prostitution. “What we have created, ladies and gentlemen, is not the American Dream, but for these people it’s the American nightmare,” Lilly said. “I witnessed, myself, the deplorable conditions of these establishments. It was horrific. They look, on the outside, like a regular bar, or nightclub with a bar, a dance floor, pool tables. But behind them is a labyrinth of hidden rooms, cement floors, closet-sized with soiled mattresses. An actual house of horrors, hiding within the trap doors and secret doors of these establishments. Where these young women run through an assembly line of horrific treatment and sexual abuse. Some 30 times a day. From four in the afternoon until two in the morning. Imagine that. These are daughters. These are children, these are sisters, going through this awful experience at the hands of these cartels. But the cartels operate in the shadows, and we need to be aware of this. We need to add to the American people an awareness of this horrific crime that’s going on.” Investigators say operations like these are considered brothels, which are “extremely common” in Houston. “This is not a political statement,” Lilly said. “This is not for democrats or republicans. This is for humanity. The open border has created the American nightmare. The sense of benevolence has actually turned its evil head upon these innocent victims. For those operating these human trafficking criminal organizations, we’re coming after you.” #traverseproject #inthenews

We’re thrilled to announce that Traverse Project is an official partner of the Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign. The Blue Campaign is DHS’s national public awareness initiative dedicated to combatting human trafficking through education, resources, and partnerships. They work tirelessly to provide communities with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to human trafficking, helping to protect vulnerable populations across the U.S. Our collaboration with the Blue Campaign allows us to expand our outreach efforts and build a safer, more informed future. #partnerships #traverseproject #bluecampaign #togetherwecan

We are excited to welcome Kristina Tanasichuk to our Advisory Board! With over 20 years of experience in homeland security, Kristina has been a key player in fostering collaboration, resilience, and innovation across the sector. As the founder of the Government Technology & Services Coalition, she has championed small and mid-sized businesses working with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Kristina also founded Women in Homeland Security, empowering women in the field through professional development. Her global influence includes her work with LABUkraine, where she has helped raise funds and deliver vital supplies for Ukraine’s defense during the war. She played a leading role in organizing the first U.S.-Ukraine Freedom Summit, supporting the rehabilitation of Ukrainian war veterans. Beyond her homeland security work, Kristina has a strong history of advocacy on Capitol Hill and has held prominent leadership roles, including President of InfraGard Nations Capital and positions with the U.S. Coast Guard Board of Mutual Assistance. We are honored to have Kristina’s vast expertise and leadership on board and look forward to the impact she will continue to make! #traverseproject #advisoryboard #nonprofits #freedomisourlegacy

Collaboration is critical to defeating the human trafficking crisis. The Traverse Project is proud to join forces with TransUnion and the Oklahoma State Attorney General’s Office in our mission to protect Indigenous communities. Task Force RED HAND is set to launch, bringing even greater resources to the fight. #traverseproject #mmip #mmiw #mmiwg  #nomorestolensisters #taskforceredhand 

A statewide human trafficking investigation conducted the week of Oct. 6 resulted in the arrest of over 130 people, according to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. In a release from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s office, 132 people who tried to buy sex were arrested. Charges included engaging in prostitution and solicitation, involving 110 suspects. Additionally, the office said 22 people were charged with felonies related to sex with a minor and/or drug possession. The suspects ranged between the ages of 21 and 71, after the Ohio Organized Crime Investigation Commission raided nine locations that had been linked to human trafficking, including several massage parlors and a motel. Investigators seized more than $20,000 and other evidence between Oct. 6 and Oct. 12 throughout 19 counties, and included cities such as Columbus, Cleveland, Akron, Toledo and Marietta. The Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children task force, along with the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office made several arrests in the Columbus area. John Hughes, 35, faces two felony counts of pandering for seeking to buy sex from a minor. Hughes works for the Ohio Treasurer’s Office and referees high-school athletics, the Attorney General’s Office said. The task force also charged five men with pandering involving minors, including Columbus-area residents Quin Liston, 22, John Dudash, 77, Christopher Miller, 54, and Robert Fijol, 45. Columbus resident Colton Smith, 35, was charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. “Numbers are staggering, which shows you there’s much work to do,” Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin said. #inthenews #traverseproject

In honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we are proud to announce the formation of Task Force Red Hand. This initiative will confront the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) that has devastated Native communities for generations. The time for action is now—no more silence, no more injustice. #traverseproject #taskforceredhand #mmip #mmiwg

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—Domestic violence and human trafficking are interconnected issues that often overlap in devastating ways. Victims of domestic violence may find themselves vulnerable to trafficking, as abusers can exploit their dependence and isolation. Traffickers may prey on individuals escaping abusive situations, offering false promises of safety and support. Additionally, those trafficked may experience violence and abuse, further perpetuating a cycle of trauma. Addressing domestic violence is crucial in the fight against human trafficking, as both require comprehensive support systems, prevention efforts, and legal protections to empower survivors and break the cycle of exploitation. #enditmovement #traverseproject #domesticviolenceawareness #survivors

Traverse Project’s Founder and CEO, Austin S., has discussed this case on several podcasts- this is a real look into what human trafficking can look like. The Texas teen abducted from an NBA game, sex trafficked, and held against her will at a hotel 200 miles away has opened up about the horrific week of abuse she endured before investigators traced her photo in an online sex ad back to her captors. Read the full article below- https://lnkd.in/gqkX3hCz

Shop our merch drop for breast cancer awareness month and support an incredible family! The DeMaio family is a very special part of the Traverse family. Tim and his wife Tabitha have always been pillars of strength and kindness, dedicating their lives to helping others. Now, they face a heartbreaking challenge that no family should endure alone. Just two months after the joy of welcoming their son Liam into the world, Tabitha received the devastating news of an aggressive stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis. Despite her bravery and relentless fight, the cancer progressed to stage 4. Alongside Liam, they have a lively two-year-old, Sawyer, who brings light to their lives during this dark time. Having recently moved out of state, far from the comfort of nearby family and friends, the DeMaios are in need of our love and support now more than ever. All proceeds from this limited edition shirt will go straight to the DeMaio family! We stand with them, today and always- her fight is our fight! Link to the shirt- https://lnkd.in/ggYTV_WD Link to the Demario family go fund me- https://gofund.me/ce352e6c #herfightisourfight #traverseproject #breastcancerawarenessmonth #survivors

Today, we honor Native American Day, a day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples who have been a part of American traditions long before the U.S. became a nation. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the history of Native Americans is written in blood and violence. Centuries of persecution have left many tribes fragmented, with some integrating into modern society, while others continue to stay connected to their roots, remembering their ancestors’ sacrifices. Native American Day is not only a celebration but also a chance to reshape the way we view Native Americans and their culture. At the same time, we must shine a light on the ongoing Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP)crisis. Indigenous women and children continue to experience violence and disappearances at alarmingly high rates. This crisis impacts families and communities deeply, and we cannot stay silent. Let’s use this day to amplify Native voices, raise awareness about MMIP, and push for justice and safety for Indigenous women and children. Together, we can honor the past while fighting for a safer future. 💪❤️🩹 📸 @whereisavory @warpartymovement 🪶 @calistamasters #nativeamerianday #MMIW #nomorestolensisters #warpartymovement #mmiwg #mmiwp #sisters #daughters #mothers #grandmothers #traverseproject #changeiscoming #taskforceredhand