The Story County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 16 adopted a proclamation declaring January 2026 Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month and urged residents to report suspected trafficking to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888.

George Balitzos, representing the Network Against Human Trafficking, thanked the board for the proclamation and told supervisors the organization has worked statewide since 2005 to combat trafficking. Balitzos said trafficking occurs in Story County and described a ‘‘huge surge’’ in online crimes against children, including grooming aided by artificial intelligence.

Balitzos cited national reporting figures and local examples, saying recent federal data showed a sharp uptick in the first half of 2025 compared with full-year 2024. ‘‘I mean, this is astonishing, and it is scary, and it's a wake up call for parents,’’ Balitzos said. He also said sextortion cases have increased and that the network will distribute a newsletter and handouts with additional statistics and resources.

The proclamation text, read at the meeting, names the Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery and urges businesses, faith groups and families to choose products not made by forced labor and to learn indicators of trafficking. The board approved the proclamation by voice vote.

The board did not take policy action beyond adopting the proclamation. Balitzos and coalition members posed for photos and offered printed materials and a newsletter sign-up for attendees.