Lodi proclaims January 2026 Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month

The Lodi City Council on Jan. 27 proclaimed January 2026 as National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month after a presentation from the police department highlighting local response efforts.

Chief Garcia introduced the proclamation and asked the council to reaffirm the city’s commitment to eradicating human trafficking. Detective Valencia of the Lodi Police Department, who said he investigates child abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking cases, described the scope of the problem and the department’s partnerships. “If you see something, please say something,” Valencia told the council, urging community vigilance.

Valencia said the Lodi Police Department collaborates with the San Joaquin County anti‑trafficking and labor trafficking task force, which includes the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, the District Attorney’s Office and the Probation Department. He also cited the San Joaquin County Justice Center as a local resource that supports a victim‑centered approach to survivors’ needs.

The proclamation text named Ramon Ypez as the mayor on whose behalf the city issued the declaration and reaffirmed the city’s intention to raise awareness, educate residents and support victim services. The council offered the proclamation as an informational item; no formal action beyond adopting the proclamation was required.

The city encouraged residents to learn trafficking indicators and to contact law enforcement or county services with concerns. The presentation closed with council appreciation for staff bringing the item forward.