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State ramping up anti-sex trafficking campaign ahead of Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Large crowds of sports fans frequently means an increase in sex trafficking, experts warn.

In response, the Indiana attorney general announced renewed efforts to raise awareness about the sex trade during the Indy 500 weekend.

The “Indiana’s Not Buying It” campaign focuses on reducing the demand for commercial sex that fuels human trafficking.

“The average age at which children in the U.S. first become victims of sex trafficking is 13,” according to a media release from the attorney general’s office. “The average age of death of a person involved in prostitution is 34, and the most common cause of death is homicide.”

The campaign launched last month in conjunction with the NCAA Final Four championship in Indianapolis.

Billboards around the state as well as ads in IndyGo buses will help raise awareness for the anti-sex trafficking efforts during the race weekend.

The Indy 500 is expected to attract around 300,000 people.