HANFORD, CA – Last Friday, Congressman David G. Valadao (CA-22) and Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) hosted a Combatting Human Trafficking Roundtable in partnership with Central Valley Against Human Trafficking (CVAHT) in Kings County.

“Human trafficking is happening across the Central Valley, and its impacts are far-reaching,” said Congressman Valadao. “California has the highest number of reported cases in the country, and while there’s no single solution to ending human trafficking, there are actions we can take to combat this epidemic. During our roundtable discussion, we heard from local advocates, law enforcement, and lived-experience experts who shared invaluable insights on the issue. I’d like to thank everyone who participated and look forward to our continued partnership in the fight against human trafficking.”

“Thank you to our local experts including nonprofit groups, law enforcement, and community members as we work to enhance and strengthen prevention and law enforcement efforts to combat human trafficking in our area,” said Congressman Vince Fong. “As discussed, together we will continue to work to support survivors and foster greater collaboration to keep all residents safe from these horrific crimes. Thank you to Rep. Valadao for his efforts to combat human trafficking with local-federal partnerships.”

Attendees included representatives from Central Valley Against Human Trafficking, Magdalene Hope, Tulare County Child Abuse Prevention Council, CA Commission on Sexual Exploitation, Central Valley Justice Coalition, The Open Door Network, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Central CA Legal Services, Project 14:14 Inc., Kings Community Action Organization, Kings County DA Sarah Hacker, Kern County DA Cynthia Zimmer, Kings County Supervisors Doug Verboon and Robert Thayer, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Valley Children’s Healthcare, Breaking the Chains, Ridgecrest Women’s Center, Kids in Need of Defense, Kern Medical, Without Permission, and Centro La Familia.

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