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Justice Mission True Blue Unit: Uniting Law Enforcement and Faith-Based Organizations to Bring Justice to the Oppressed

Gus Hayes

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Published in Justice Mission (True Blue K 9 Unit 2)

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In the ongoing fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, it is imperative that law enforcement agencies collaborate with faith-based organizations. The Justice Mission True Blue Unit is a unique model of partnership that brings these two spheres together, leveraging their collective strengths to empower survivors and bring perpetrators to justice.

The True Blue Unit was born out of a shared vision between law enforcement professionals and Christian leaders in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Recognizing the urgent need to address the prevalence of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in their community, they sought a collaborative approach that could maximize their impact.

In 2014, the first True Blue Unit was established within the Colorado Springs Police Department. Since then, the model has spread rapidly, with over 20 units now operating in cities and counties across the United States.

Justice Mission (True Blue K-9 Unit Book 2)

by Lynette Eason

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1456 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages

The primary mission of the True Blue Unit is to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation by:

Identifying and rescuing victims of these crimes
Investigating and apprehending perpetrators
Providing support and resources to survivors
Raising awareness about these issues within the community

True Blue Units are characterized by a unique partnership between law enforcement officers and faith-based organizations. This strategic alliance allows for:

Enhanced Intelligence Sharing: Faith-based organizations often have access to information and connections within marginalized communities that law enforcement agencies may not possess. This partnership enables officers to identify victims and suspects more effectively.
Specialized Support for Survivors: Faith-based organizations are equipped to provide comprehensive support services to survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. This includes counseling, shelter, medical care, and job training.
Community Outreach: Faith-based organizations have strong connections within their communities. They play a vital role in educating the public about human trafficking and sexual exploitation, mobilizing volunteers, and advocating for legislative changes.

True Blue Units employ a multifaceted approach to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation:

Intelligence-Led Investigations: Officers draw upon information from faith-based partners and the community to identify potential victims, traffickers, and exploitation venues.
Coordinated Operations: Officers work alongside faith-based organizations to conduct joint raids, surveillance operations, and other initiatives aimed at rescuing victims and apprehending perpetrators.
Victim Support and Protection: Officers and faith-based partners prioritize the safety and well-being of victims throughout the investigation and prosecution process.
Community Engagement: True Blue Units engage with local businesses, schools, and other organizations to raise awareness, train volunteers, and build a network of support for survivors.

The True Blue Unit model has proven to be highly effective in combating human trafficking and sexual exploitation:

Rescued Victims: True Blue Units have rescued hundreds of victims from trafficking and exploitation situations.
Arrests and Convictions: Officers have arrested and convicted numerous traffickers and exploiters.
Empowered Survivors: Faith-based organizations provide ongoing support and resources to survivors, empowering them to rebuild their lives and pursue justice.
Increased Awareness: True Blue Units have significantly raised awareness about human trafficking and sexual exploitation, leading to increased community involvement and legislative action.

One notable example of True Blue's success is Operation Unshackled, a multi-agency initiative launched in 2019. This operation targeted human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Over a two-week period, law enforcement officers and faith-based partners collaborated to:

Rescue 77 victims of trafficking and exploitation
Arrest 147 traffickers and exploiters
Seize over $2 million in assets related to trafficking operations

Operation Unshackled demonstrated the power of collaboration between law enforcement and faith-based organizations in disrupting trafficking networks and providing support to survivors.

The Justice Mission True Blue Unit model is a powerful example of how law enforcement and faith-based organizations can work together to make a meaningful impact in the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation. By combining their resources, expertise, and unwavering commitment to justice, True Blue Units are bringing hope to survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and empowering communities to confront these heinous crimes.

As the scourge of human trafficking and sexual exploitation continues to afflict our society, the need for innovative and effective partnerships like True Blue becomes ever more apparent. By embracing collaboration, we can create a world where everyone is safe from exploitation and oppression.

Justice Mission (True Blue K-9 Unit Book 2)

by Lynette Eason

4.6 out of 5