The safety of children is a top priority for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program plays a pivotal role in these efforts. This specialized program trains DPS personnel to recognize the indicators that a child may be a victim of exploitation, at-risk of victimization, or missing. With this training, officers are empowered to take swift and decisive action to rescue endangered children and prevent crimes such as human trafficking. The IPC program equips Texas DPS Troopers with the knowledge and skills needed to identify children in danger. This training serves as a critical component in DPS’s broader mission to combat crimes like human trafficking and protect the most vulnerable populations.

When they make a traffic stop or go into a situation involving vulnerable individuals DPS Officers are trained to:

  • Recognize behavioral and situational indicators of exploitation, trafficking, or abuse.
  • Ask questions effectively and sensitively to determine if a child may be at risk.
  • Investigate suspicious situations, such as irregular travel circumstances or the presence of questionable guardianship.
  • Coordinate with other agencies to ensure children receive proper care and protection after being rescued.

 

 

DPS Officers are not the only ones who discover individuals in need.  Everyday citizens also play a crucial role in safeguarding children. If you suspect that a child is in danger, being exploited, or subjected to trafficking, your vigilance and action could make a significant difference. Reporting such cases is both a responsibility and an opportunity to intervene in potentially life-altering situations.

  1. Contact Local Law Enforcement:
    • Call 911 if the child is in immediate danger.
    • For non-emergencies, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office.
  2. Texas Abuse Hotline:
    • Call 1-800-252-5400 to report suspected child abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
    • Submit a report online at www.txabusehotline.org. (Note: Online reports may take up to 24 hours to process.)
  3. National Human Trafficking Hotline:
  4. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC):
    • Use the CyberTipline at www.cybertipline.org to report suspected online exploitation or trafficking.
    • Call 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) for missing children reports or suspicious activities.
  5. Crime Stoppers:
      • Report anonymously by calling 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).

 

 

When reporting, it is crucial to provide as much detail as possible, such as descriptions of the child and individuals involved, vehicle information, location details, and any observed behaviors that raised concern. Law enforcement professionals will handle the investigation and follow up. The IPC program exemplifies DPS’s commitment to protecting Texas communities and combating human trafficking. Through rigorous training and public awareness efforts, Troopers are equipped to make a difference every day, rescuing children from dangerous situations and holding offenders accountable.

For more information about the IPC program and how DPS is working to safeguard children across the state, listen to Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee discuss the program.

 

 

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