Chicago, Illinois – A courageous report from a human trafficking survivor has led the Illinois State Police (ISP) to a significant arrest in a trafficking case. Heggie D. Carr, 46, from Chicago, has been charged with Involuntary Servitude and Trafficking Persons, following an intensive investigation prompted by the survivor’s testimony.
This breakthrough began in Peoria County, where the ISP’s Violent Crime Unit received crucial information from a survivor who had escaped trafficking. Despite initial difficulties in maintaining contact with the survivor, the ISP persevered, uncovering critical electronic evidence and conducting discreet operations in Lombard, Illinois.
The survivor’s information was pivotal in guiding the ISP’s investigation, eventually leading to Carr’s arrest at a Lombard hotel and the rescue of four women. These women have since received emergency housing and necessary support services.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly praised the bravery of the survivor and the diligent work of the ISP officers. The case highlights the ISP Trafficking Enforcement Bureau’s role in targeting human trafficking, established in 2022 to focus on the commercial sex trade and labor trafficking.
This incident sheds light on the severe issue of human trafficking, where victims are often coerced or deceived into exploitation. Vulnerable populations, particularly those facing substance abuse, mental health challenges, or homelessness, are at increased risk.
The public is encouraged to report any human trafficking suspicions to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, text *233733, or via ISP.Crime.Tips@illinois.gov. More information can be found at www.humantraffickinghotline.org.
