Clallam County Prosecutor Mark Nichols recently addressed the West End Business group and the Forks Chamber of Commerce to raise awareness about human trafficking, emphasizing the county’s commitment to keeping the issue in the spotlight beyond January, which is recognized as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

Nichols outlined global, national, and local efforts to combat human trafficking. On the international level, the United Nations protocol focuses on providing protection to victims. Since 2001, the U.S. has taken significant steps to evaluate and score other nations on their anti-trafficking efforts. Countries such as the U.S. and Canada hold Tier 1 status, while Mexico remains at Tier 2, showing progress but still facing challenges. In contrast, Tier 3 countries fail to comply with anti-trafficking standards and, in some cases, are complicit in these crimes.

Nichols described the psychological grip traffickers can have over their victims, often leading to Stockholm Syndrome, where victims develop emotional dependence on their traffickers and are reluctant to cooperate with law enforcement. He stressed that trafficking isn’t just about forced labor and sex trafficking—it can also include threats of deportation, child labor in sweatshops, and power dynamics that trap victims in exploitative situations.

Technology plays a major role in modern trafficking crimes. Tools such as Net Nanny stings are used to catch offenders, while the dark web has become a marketplace for traffickers, where children are reportedly sold for Bitcoin. Washington State has been at the forefront of the fight, becoming the first state to pass an anti-trafficking law, with most other U.S. states following suit.

At the local level, Nichols announced a new Clallam County initiative to install human trafficking awareness signage in 79 public restrooms across county buildings, fairgrounds, and other key locations. The signs, in multiple languages, will provide potential victims with information on how to seek help. The program will cost $5,000, with cities and tribal governments also interested in joining the effort. Nichols noted that SeaTac Airport has implemented extensive signage, setting a strong example.

Nichols expressed pride in Clallam County’s leadership in addressing human trafficking and emphasized the importance of keeping the conversation going year-round.

“It’s happening here—even in Clallam County,” he warned. “Raising awareness is just the beginning.”