In an IMPD police report, a vice investigation for human trafficking was opened at the same time and in the same room as a triple shooting that killed one at an Extended Stay hotel on Indy's northwest side.
IMPD says they are not searching for any suspects and have not made any arrests. They say shortly after homicide detectives began their investigation, assistance from the Human Trafficking Unit was requested.
"This is the kind of crime that occurs in plain sight," said Beth White, the President and CEO of the Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking. "Often young people don't know who they don't turn to, they don't think that anybody will believe them. They just think it's their job to do these things in exchange for someone to love and care for them. And that is a that's what's so insidious about this."
She says human trafficking is a manipulative crime and happens everywhere.
"If this circumstance ends up being a circumstance of trafficking, guns are involved, there's a lot of money involved. There are people whose interest is to is to make sure this circumstance perpetuates, and you could put yourself in grave danger," said White.
She says a sign of human trafficking is a young person who looks out of place, distant and vulnerable.
"We never recommend that a person intercede, this is a law enforcement problem and should be treated as such," said White. "But if someone comes to you and asks for help, believe them call law enforcement right away."
The Extended Stay declined to comment about the shooting or any investigation.