Congressman Haridopolos Hosts 2025 Human Trafficking Symposium at Eastern Florida State College
MELBOURNE, FL – Today, Congressman Mike Haridopolos (FL-08) hosted the 2025 Human Trafficking Symposium at Eastern Florida State College, bringing together leading experts, law enforcement, advocates, and survivors to strengthen local efforts against one of the most urgent human rights crises facing our community.
According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 21,865 victims of human trafficking were identified in the United States last year alone. The symposium aimed to raise awareness, share best practices, and equip the community with tools to prevent and combat trafficking.
The event was organized in partnership with the Space Coast Human Trafficking Task Force, local law enforcement agencies, and advocacy organizations, with breakout sessions tailored for law enforcement officers, healthcare professionals, members of the transportation industry, and the public.
“Human trafficking is a crime that hides in plain sight,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “Too often, it happens in our own backyards without the public ever realizing it. That’s why bringing together law enforcement, advocates, survivors, and the community is so critical. We have to learn how to recognize the signs, how to respond effectively, and how to support those who have endured this unimaginable abuse.”
The symposium featured remarks by Congressman Haridopolos and a panel discussion moderated by Ryan Elijah of FOX 35 News, with participation by:
Gregory Kehoe, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
Katelyn Lee, DCF Human Trafficking Coordinator
Kim Figueroa, Survivor
Lisa Haba, Attorney
Maurice Edwards, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Zeke McKine, FLITE Center
Panelists discussed trends in trafficking cases, the importance of cross-agency collaboration, survivor-centered support services, and the growing threat of online exploitation of children. They outlined what parents, educators, and community members should watch for to protect young people from being targeted in digital spaces. U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe shared sobering details on the severity and scope of child exploitation cases across the Middle District of Florida, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and coordinated action.
“Today’s symposium is about building partnerships and equipping our neighbors with the tools to fight back,” added Haridopolos. “If we stay informed, vigilant, and united, we can stop traffickers before they claim another victim.”
