The Illinois State Police (ISP), in collaboration with the McLean County Sheriff’s Office, the Decatur Police Department, and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, has launched the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group (ITEG) to intensify efforts against human trafficking across the state. This multi-agency task force aims to enhance the identification, investigation, and prosecution of trafficking crimes while providing comprehensive support services to victims.
Headquartered at the newly established Investigative Support Operations Center (ISOC) in Decatur, ITEG will serve as a central hub for coordinated law enforcement activities. The ISOC is equipped with advanced technology and software to aid in surveillance, counter-surveillance, and the analysis of trafficking networks. Additionally, it functions as a training center for undercover agents and inspectors, focusing on proactive demand suppression and victim recovery operations.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly emphasized the pervasive nature of human trafficking, stating, “Human trafficking occurs not just globally, but locally, and it is critical law enforcement at all levels work together.” He highlighted that the collaboration with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation provides ITEG with cutting-edge resources to combat these crimes effectively.
McLean County Sheriff Matt Lane expressed the task force’s commitment to protecting victims and holding offenders accountable, noting that the initiative represents a significant advancement in the state’s efforts to combat human trafficking .
The Howard G. Buffett Foundation has been instrumental in supporting ITEG, contributing over $135 million to anti-human trafficking efforts across seven states. Their investment ensures that special agents have access to the latest technology and resources necessary for effective enforcement .
Since the inception of ISP’s Trafficking Enforcement Bureau in January 2022, more than 1,300 officers have received human trafficking awareness training, with nearly 140 trained in advanced investigative techniques. The bureau has conducted multiple operations, resulting in numerous arrests and charges, demonstrating the state’s ongoing commitment to eradicating human trafficking
ITEG’s formation marks a significant step toward a standardized, statewide response to human trafficking, fostering collaboration among state, local, and federal agencies to protect victims and dismantle trafficking networks.
