History
The Regionalized Human Trafficking Taskforce (RHTRT) was created by the Connecticut Children’s Alliance’s Executive Director and the Hartford State’s Attorney to pilot an enhanced response to child trafficking and to launch Connecticut’s first multidisciplinary team (MDT) model for adult trafficking victims. Recognizing that these cases often cross city and county lines, the Taskforce quickly grew into a regionalized model supported by partners statewide. Its success depends on strong collaboration among law enforcement, prosecutors, victim advocates, medical and mental health providers, child welfare, and community organizations—all working together to provide a consistent, victim-centered response.
What the Taskforce Is
The RHTRT is a coordinated, statewide partnership that ensures children and adults impacted by trafficking are met with safety, dignity, and comprehensive care. Built on the MDT model, it unites law enforcement, prosecutors, advocates, health and mental health providers, child welfare, and community organizations. Together, these partners investigate cases, provide critical services for survivors, and strengthen prevention efforts across Connecticut.
Programming Under RHTRT
The Taskforce oversees several innovative programs designed to strengthen Connecticut’s response to human trafficking:
- Response Team Provides immediate, coordinated support for children and adults identified as victims of trafficking, ensuring access to advocacy, resources, and a trauma-informed investigative process.
- Journey Mapping Project Examines Connecticut’s current response to human trafficking, identifies gaps, and develops a strategic plan to improve prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts.
- Comfort Pup Program Partners with Hero Pups, a New Hampshire-based nonprofit, to place a trained comfort dog with the Taskforce. The pup supports victims and their families, easing the stress of disclosure, interviews, and court proceedings.
- Training and Technical Assistance Delivers statewide training for law enforcement, prosecutors, MDT partners, and community providers on recognizing, investigating, and responding to trafficking cases.
Together, these programs embody the RHTRT’s mission: to strengthen collaboration, expand victim services, hold traffickers accountable, and prevent future exploitation.
