Marin County DA Raises Awareness Of Human Trafficking Ahead Of Super Bowl

MARIN COUNTY, CA — The Bay Area and Marin County are anticipating millions of visitors in 2026 for major upcoming sporting events, but the excitement of these events is tempered by an increased danger of criminal activity, particularly human trafficking.

On Jan. 9, Marin County District Attorney Lori Frugoli joined other regional leaders at the annual press conference for the San Francisco Collaborative Against Human Trafficking. The purpose of the event was to provide updates to the public, media and stakeholders regarding the coordinated regional efforts to fight human trafficking.

Speakers at the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration among local agencies and community partners in combating human trafficking. This involves a three-pronged approach: prevention, victim protection, and the prosecution of traffickers. Attendees received crucial information on key anti-trafficking initiatives, regional strategies for upcoming major events and practical ways for individuals and groups to support these vital efforts.

“I have driven the Highway 101 corridor with a survivor who pointed out locations where she was trafficked, so yes, even in Marin this happens,” she said. “Although Marin is one of the safest counties in the state, if not the safest, we are well aware that the Golden Gate Bridge, the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, and Highway 101 corridor are easy pathways for people with good and bad intentions to travel here. The mobility of traffickers and their customers is one of the reasons behind this amazing collaborative. Our District Attorney’s Office will continue working with local and regional partners as the Bay Area welcomes the world.”

Sheriff Jamie Scardina has affirmed the Marin County Sheriff’s Office's commitment to fighting human trafficking.

“In conjunction with our state and local partners, our Patrol Division and Investigations Division will work to target individuals who reside within or travel to Marin County for the purpose of human trafficking and curb their actions,” he said.

Significant short-term visitor traffic is generated by major Bay Area events such as the Super Bowl on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium, the World Cup in June and July, as well as regular occurrences like yacht racing, auto races at Sonoma Raceway, and Fleet Week. To prevent exploitation, agencies and communities must work together in light of this influx.

The San Francisco Coalition Against Human Trafficking is a collaborative organization committed to eradicating human trafficking. It unites government agencies, law enforcement, service providers, advocates, and community partners to achieve its goals through education, outreach, survivor support, and inter-agency cooperation. The coalition aims to strengthen regional anti-trafficking efforts, raise public awareness, promote best practices, and champion policies that hold traffickers accountable and safeguard victims.

Marin County is dedicated to safety via the Marin County Coalition to End Human Trafficking, which increases awareness on recognizing and reporting human trafficking.

To join local prevention efforts, email MCCEHT.