#United States #Safe House Project #Trenton #Simply Report #New Jersey State Police

New Jersey State Police and Safe House Project Unite Against Human Trafficking

In a significant effort to combat the heinous crime of human trafficking, the New Jersey State Police has entered into a partnership with the Safe House Project to introduce a new reporting tool, Simply Report. This initiative is designed to enable community members to report suspected trafficking incidents while empowering law enforcement to respond swiftly and effectively.

A System Designed for Action

The launch of Simply Report coincides with an unprecedented surge in visitors to New Jersey, as it prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 26™ Final on July 19, 2026, at the New York New Jersey Stadium. With the influx of tourists, the risk of trafficking activities traditionally escalates, making the launch of such a tool timely and critical.

"Human trafficking is a hidden crime that targets society's most vulnerable individuals—robbing them of their freedom and dignity," asserted Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. She emphasized that each report of suspicious activity holds the potential to save a life, urging the public to utilize Simply Report to share information safely and anonymously.

How Simply Report Works

Simply Report is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to all. Available in over 200 languages, it allows anyone to report suspected cases of human trafficking via an app, which can be downloaded on both Google and Apple devices, or through the website SimplyReport.com. The platform employs a sophisticated behavioral intelligence matrix that evaluates each submission against more than 700 known trafficking indicators. This enables authorities to screen reports, assign a risk classification, and deliver actionable intelligence to law enforcement in real time.

Victims identified through Simply Report will receive immediate support. The platform routes them directly to Safe House Project's Survivor Support Team, facilitating their placement in a certified network of safe homes dedicated to providing sustained care.

Bridging the Gap Between Communities and Law Enforcement

Around the country, it is estimated that fewer than 1% of human trafficking victims are ever identified. This statistic underscores the need for a robust communication conduit between bystanders and law enforcement. Simply Report aims to bridge this gap by consolidating various hotlines and disconnected tip lines into a single, efficient pathway, ensuring that actionable insights reach those in a position to intervene.

"New Jersey is not merely adding another phone number; it's enhancing its capabilities," stated Kristi Wells, CEO and Co-Founder of Safe House Project. She elaborated that the current infrastructure is designed to align with critical locations where traffickers operate, such as major highways, airports, hotels, and the stadium hosting the World Cup, thereby creating a proactive approach in combating trafficking activities.

Collaborative Awareness Efforts

The partnership extends beyond the technology itself; both organizations have committed to raising awareness of the Simply Report platform across New Jersey. This outreach will target not only residents but frontline professionals in industries like healthcare, education, hospitality, and transportation, all of whom are likely to encounter trafficking situations in their daily interactions.

In the wake of significant global events, which have historically been linked to increased trafficking activity, this initiative represents a preemptive and strategic public safety measure. By launching this reporting infrastructure, New Jersey is not only addressing immediate concerns but is also laying the foundation for long-term community safety post-World Cup.

Residents are encouraged to download the Simply Report app or engage with the program through their website. For further inquiries or to report suspicious activity, individuals can call 1-833-5-BESAFE.

About Safe House Project

As one of the fastest-growing anti-trafficking nonprofits in the United States, Safe House Project focuses on creating a comprehensive network that connects identification efforts, survivor care, and prosecution. Their commitment to empowerment and rehabilitation has seen them assist thousands of survivors through tailored case management and care in safe homes nationwide. To learn more, visit safehouseproject.org.