Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost welcomed the 2025-26 Teen Ambassador Board this week by inviting members to sit in on a press conference announcing the results of a statewide human trafficking crackdown, Operation Next Door.
The board, made up of high school juniors and seniors, got a behind-the-scenes look at how a press conference in Yost’s office unfolds and had the chance to directly question Yost and law enforcement officials about the sting.
Students asked thoughtful questions such as:
- What are the early warning signs of human trafficking?
- How big of a role does social media play in victimization?
- What happens after an operation like this?
Officials offered clear takeaways:
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, report it to the Human Trafficking Hotline at 844-363-6448.
- Never trust strangers online or share intimate photos, no matter how well you think you know them.
- Stings like this will continue as long as there is demand, with tactics evolving to match changing trends.
“Teenagers are often dismissed as bystanders, but this year’s group showed that they’re anything but,” Yost said. “They asked tough questions, including some that adults might be reluctant to ask. Ohio’s future is in good hands.”
During their one-year term, Teen Ambassador Board members will share their perspectives on issues affecting young Ohioans and engage directly with state officials through interactive sessions, policy discussions, and hands-on activities.
This year’s board includes 182 students from across Ohio, including several local students.
