From right, Kevin Kinney, Brad Fox and Gov. Terry Branstad stand together after being presented awards for work to combat human trafficking in Iowa. Contributed photo

This month in Iowa has been designated as Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month by Governor Terry Branstad and work against a multistate sex trafficking ring was recognized recently at the Iowa Statehouse. Senator Kevin Kinney and Clear Creek Amana Middle School Principal Brad Fox were presented Outstanding Service Awards.

In 2005, when Kinney was with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, the two worked to help end a sex trafficking ring that had connections locally as well as in Chicago and St. Paul. Fox contacted Kinney with concerns about some of the students at his school. Through their work with other authorities a 13-year-old girl was rescued.

Last year, as a state senator, Kinney helped establish an office to focus on combating human trafficking in Iowa.