Local county launches new initiatives to protect at-risk children from human trafficking

Montgomery County Children Services is launching two new initiatives designed to protect at-risk youth from human trafficking and exploitation.

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The county was selected by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth as one of three pilot sites in the state to improve how agencies identify and respond to child trafficking.

These initiatives come as national data highlights the vulnerability of children who have been victims of abuse or neglect, according to a press release.

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More than 32,000 reports of missing children were received in 2025, and approximately one in seven children was identified as a likely victim of child sex trafficking, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Officials noted that traffickers often target youth who lack stable support systems or have a history of running away.

Montgomery County Children Services will lead local implementation with a staff member dedicated exclusively to trafficking cases.

The state will fully fund this position in Montgomery County to strengthen investigations, intake coordination and trauma-informed care.

A second initiative aims to support young people who frequently run away or disappear.

Under this program, a local nonprofit organization will lead non-police response efforts to provide early intervention.

More information is available on the Ohio Department of Children and Youth website.

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