Law enforcement, advocates say human trafficking is underreported in Cambria and Somerset Counties
According to our media partners at the Tribune-Democrat, between 2015 and 2022, the National Human Trafficking Hotline identified 12 likely victims in Cambria County and three in Somerset County. While those numbers may appear small, law enforcement and experts caution that the actual scope is far greater.
'Frankly, we're actively investigating several cases right now,' Greg Neugebauer, Cambria County District Attorney, said. While most local cases involve sexual exploitation, he noted that labor trafficking has not been common in the area due to the lack of migrant worker populations.
Notable cases in recent years include Barshay Dunbar's 2017 conviction for operating a sex ring out of a Super 8 hotel in Richland Township using Backpage.com. Dunbar reportedly paid women in drugs. That case began when a hotel manager tipped off police.
WTAJ story here: Human trafficking suspect sentenced to prison
In 2022, William Warren was arrested and later pleaded guilty after law enforcement responded to a fatal overdose at his home in Stonycreek Township. Investigators determined the incident involved trafficking and drug activity.
WTAJ story here: Johnstown man accused of sex trafficking next to police station
Most recently, a Johnstown man was charged with multiple felonies for allegedly providing drugs to a teenage runaway and using her for sex in exchange for housing.
WTAJ story here: Johnstown man accused of sex trafficking minor, threatening to kill her
Johnstown Police Chief Mark Britton said the lack of reporting is not surprising, likening it to other violent and exploitative crimes where victims often remain silent out of fear or shame.
Community leaders, counselors and law enforcement agree: trafficking is happening and more than most realize.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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