MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- This week, Milwaukee police shared new crime stats, showing a rise in human trafficking reports. Ahead of the Republican National Convention, experts say it's important to raise awareness of the issue.
MPD released mid-year crime stats and the numbers show a rising trend. From 2022 to the first half of 2024, reports of human trafficking increased by 43 percent.
"We're pleased to see that victims are placing trust in us to report these crimes," said MPD Chief Jeffrey Norman.
But experts say for every case that is reported to law enforcement, there are many more that aren't.
"One of the things that is difficult is that human trafficking and sex trafficking in particular are events that are happening out of view, and often are underreported so it's actually difficult to know what the true extent of sex trafficking is," said Dr. Constance Kostelac, Assistant Professor at Medical College of Wisconsin.
With large scale events happening in the city, such as the RNC, Dr. Kostelac says raising awareness is key.
"...when we have so many people coming into an area, it's an opportunity to share information about the risk factors," she said.
Officials say when you're out and about, be aware of suspicious activity.
For more information on recognizing the signs of human trafficking, click here.