Senate committee raises dark‑web threats and human‑trafficking concerns; members seek follow‑up

Committee members discussed the dark web and related public‑safety issues after Mr. Frederick’s testimony. The chair said the committee may hold future meetings to examine the dark web’s role in child exploitation and trafficking and recommended research staff and DHS‑experienced researchers assist.

Senator King (chair) described encounters on social media and referenced an "ethical hacker" who exposes predators by confronting suspects in sting operations. He and other members noted that communications identified in investigations sometimes occur off publicly indexed sites.

Senator Love urged the committee to examine hotels along Interstate 30, saying she had learned of properties where entire floors were allegedly being used for trafficking. "The whole floor was being used for human trafficking," Senator Love said, and asked for actions to hold hotels accountable and for staff follow‑up.

Committee staff were asked to coordinate with research staff (the chair referenced a researcher with DHS experience) and to schedule future briefings so the committee can better understand dark‑web dynamics and trafficking indicators. No formal investigative action or subpoenas were initiated during the meeting.