I appreciate the coverage of the important work being done to combat human trafficking in our state. However, I would like to clarify a misquote attributed to me in your recent article titled “Starkville to take lead in multi-agency task force to tackle human trafficking.”
I was quoted as saying I am “a member of the Tim Tebow Foundation Task Force against human trafficking” and that “99% of incidents are things like single mom waitressing who gets bigger and bigger tips from a guy who says he has a job for her, and before she knows is locked in a hotel room being abused over and over again.”
For accuracy: I support the work of the Tim Tebow Foundation, specifically the division that addresses human trafficking.
Additionally, what I intended to convey is that less than 1% of trafficking cases in Mississippi involve abductions. The other 99% occur in a variety of ways that may not be immediately recognized as trafficking. For example, someone may gain the trust of a vulnerable individual—like a single mother working as a waitress—over time and then lure her into a situation that turns abusive and exploitative. These cases are complex, and it’s crucial that we speak about them accurately to raise awareness and better protect those at risk.
Thank you for the opportunity to clarify.
Amy Bogue
President, Allegro Family Clinic
Publisher’s note: We regret the error in our reporting. We have corrected the story online and issued a formal correction on the front page of the paper.
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
