Originally published WEBINAR: North Carolina Task Force Explores Technology’s Role in Combating Human Trafficking on by https://www.hstoday.us/webinars/north-carolina-task-force-explores-technologys-role-in-combating-human-trafficking/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=north-carolina-task-force-explores-technologys-role-in-combating-human-trafficking at Homeland Security
The North Carolina Demand Reduction Task Force will host a webinar on November 6, 2024, to explore the intersection of technology and human trafficking, with a focus on efforts to curb child exploitation across the Piedmont-Triad region. The event will showcase pioneering initiatives in leveraging technology to track and apprehend predators while offering expert perspectives on addressing the demand driving human trafficking.
This virtual event will feature key panelists from law enforcement, non-profits, and advocacy organizations who have led significant initiatives in combating online exploitation. Attendees will gain insight into how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), are being used to detect, deter, and bring offenders to justice. Panelists will share innovative approaches and provide updates on ongoing efforts to disrupt human trafficking networks.
Featured Panelists and Initiatives
The webinar will include representatives from The Invictus Project and Street Grace, organizations employing advanced technology to combat trafficking and support law enforcement in tracking perpetrators. Leaders from The Invictus Project will discuss their work in locating and apprehending online predators, while experts from Street Grace will explain how AI is being used to interact with individuals seeking to exploit vulnerable populations, generating valuable evidence for law enforcement investigations.
Ray Dawson – Invictus Project
Ray Dawson, a Detective with the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, serves as a dedicated investigator and digital forensic examiner for the Invictus Task Force. Dawson is an active member of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and founded The Invictus Project in 2021. With a robust background in both law enforcement and military operations, Dawson’s focus is on preventing domestic trafficking and the exploitation of children.
Zachary Neefe – Homeland Security Investigations
Special Agent Zachary Neefe from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will represent HSI’s Greensboro division and the Invictus Child Exploitation Task Force. Neefe’s work focuses on proactive investigations targeting child exploitation, enticement cases, and collaboration with local Internet Crimes Against Children affiliates. He brings extensive experience in addressing the distribution of child sexual abuse material and supporting local law enforcement.
Nick Lembo – Street Grace Arizona
Nick Lembo serves as Executive Director of Street Grace Arizona, where he leads their Demand Reduction Cyber Patrol. Lembo’s longstanding dedication to anti-trafficking initiatives includes roles on the boards of the Genesis Project, Shared Hope International, and the Rebecca Bender Initiative. His efforts aim to reduce trafficking demand through targeted cyber initiatives and educational outreach.
Brooke Ruffin – Street Grace Vice President
As Vice President of Street Grace, Brooke Ruffin has played a pivotal role in the organization’s expansion across multiple markets. Ruffin, a survivor of child sexual abuse and exploitation, is committed to education and advocacy, helping protect families from similar dangers. Her work with Street Grace includes advancing Transaction Intercept and other innovative tools aimed at identifying and preventing exploitation.
When: Wed, November 6, 2024 02:00 PM – 03:30 PM EST
Click here to read more and register.
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Originally published WEBINAR: North Carolina Task Force Explores Technology’s Role in Combating Human Trafficking on by https://www.hstoday.us/webinars/north-carolina-task-force-explores-technologys-role-in-combating-human-trafficking/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=north-carolina-task-force-explores-technologys-role-in-combating-human-trafficking at Homeland Security
Originally published Homeland Security