Human Trafficking Investigation Workshop:
Techniques, Best Practices, and Effective Reporting

A 3.5 hour workshop on Anti-Human Trafficking Investigations and Best Practices

  • date icon

    A Virtual Workshop

  • location icon

    April 08, 2026
    11:00 AM - 2:30 PM ET

About the event

Human trafficking is a fast-growing and brutal financial crime, with devastating consequences for its victims. The good news is that financial crime professionals can play a key role in combating human trafficking – if they can recognize its indicators, understand how to investigate effectively, and craft reports that get useful intelligence into the hands of law enforcement.

Join us for this 3.5. workshop as experts from both law enforcement and fincrime compliance programs share their perspectives and best practices for effective investigations into human trafficking.

The workshop explores how human trafficking manifests in financial systems, common typologies and red flags, and the critical role financial institutions play in detection and reporting. Participants will gain practical insight into identifying potential trafficking related activity and documenting concerns clearly and effectively.

Attendees will hear directly from members of law enforcement on how SAR reporting helps build cases against traffickers, what information is most valuable for prosecutors, and how the private sector can effectively collaborate with law enforcement.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Define human trafficking and understand its forms, scope, and impact within the financial crime landscape
  • Explain the role and regulatory expectations of financial institutions in identifying and reporting human trafficking
  • Identify common human trafficking red flags and financial typologies across products and channels
  • Apply a structured approach to analyzing activity that may indicate human trafficking
  • Distinguish trafficking related indicators from other types of suspicious activity
  • Document and articulate trafficking-related concerns clearly and factually in internal reports and SARs
  • Recognize common challenges and pitfalls when investigating and reporting potential human trafficking activity

Workshop Structure

Anti-Human Trafficking Fundamentals

Identification & Application

Investigative Best Practices & Common Pitfalls

Practioner and Prosecution Perspectives

Hands-on Exercise


Who should attend

This workshop is designed for professionals who play a role in detecting, investigating, or reporting potential human trafficking activities. Anyone involved in transaction monitoring, customer interactions, investigations, SAR writing, or management oversight will benefit from this training. While the content focuses on the U.S. regulatory framework for reporting, the investigative techniques, red flag indicators, and best practices are applicable to professionals in any jurisdiction. Law enforcement agents who use SARs in trafficking investigations will also gain valuable insight into the financial institution reporting process.

Example roles include:

  • AML analysts and investigators
  • Fraud analysts and investigators
  • BSA/AML compliance officers
  • Transaction monitoring specialists
  • Customer due diligence teams
  • AML and fraud team leaders
  • Case management staff
  • Federal, state, and local law enforcement
  • Financial intelligence unit personnel
  • Victim services coordinators (who may encounter financial exploitation indicators)

 

Woman writing at a desk with digital graphics in the background.

Workshop Pricing


Please note: A recording of this event will not be available. This is to encourage open dialogue and ensure participants feel comfortable speaking freely during the session.

Workshop Only

Anti-Human Trafficking Investigations Workshop (Member)

$125 USD

Registration Closes April 7, 2026

Anti-Human Trafficking Investigations Workshop
(Non-Member)

$230 USD

Registration Closes April 7, 2026

Workshop + 1 year Membership Bundle

Anti-Human Trafficking Investigations Workshop + 1 Year Membership

$405 USD

Registration Closes April 7, 2026

Anti-Human Trafficking Investigations Workshop + 1 Year Government Membership

$330 USD

Registration Closes April 7, 2026

Agenda

April 8, 2026 | 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM ET

AHT Fundamentals

Topics Covered:

Definitions, scop and impact
Role of financial institutions
How law enforcement uses SARs in investigations

Typologies and Red Flags

Topics Covered:

What human trafficking looks like in financial systems
Common typologies across products and channels
Distinguishing human trafficking indicators
Common mistakes and misconceptions

Investigation Best Practices

Topics Covered:

Using factual, objective, and chronological documentation
Aligning narratives with transaction records
Key phrases and keywords for law enforcement readability

Practitioner & Prosecutor Perspectives

Activity:

Perspectives from Prosecurtors and Practioners
How SAR narratives connect to broader workflows
Practical reporting considerations

Hands-On Exercise: Mock Scenario Review

Activity:

Participants receive a financial crime case scenarios.
Review SAR narratives based on the provided data.
Peer review scenarios with feedback from the instructor.

Q&A & Closing Remarks

Topics Covered:

Recap of best practices and key take aways
Additional AHT resources and compliance tools
Open Q&A Session

Meet Your Instructors

Kevin Metcalf

Senior Consultant / Former DOJ

I’m a mission-driven strategist and speaker with over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, intelligence, and legal operations, focused on dismantling human trafficking and exploitation networks through bold leadership and cross-sector collaboration.

As a former federal agent and prosecutor, I’ve led global initiatives that bridge the gap between technology, investigation, and survivor advocacy. My work has united experts in legal strategy, cyber intelligence, geospatial analysis, cryptocurrency tracking, and open-source intelligence to transform how agencies pursue justice across jurisdictions.

I’m also a founder and builder of coalitions, task forces, and systems that don’t just identify problems, but solve them. Through my leadership, we’ve operationalized innovation, driven multi-agency collaboration, and delivered measurable impact: high-value arrests, victim recoveries, and real-world policy shifts.

As a speaker and thought leader, I bring clarity to complex issues like child exploitation, digital evidence, online safety, and the evolving tactics of traffickers. I’ve trained thousands—from frontline investigators to executive decision-makers—and I’m passionate about inspiring action that lasts longer than the applause.

Whether it’s consulting with global organizations, advising leadership teams, or speaking on the power of strategic disruption, I thrive where mission meets momentum.

If you’re looking for a seasoned voice at the table—or on the stage—who understands both the human and operational sides of protecting the vulnerable, let’s talk.

 

Whooster

Mark Twombly

SVP Financial Crimes Director / Former FBI

Mark Twombly, SVP and Financial Crimes Director at KeyBank, has over 25 years of financial services and law enforcement / intelligence experience. In his current role, he manages National Security Risk Management, with oversight of Sanctions / OFAC matters, Trade Compliance / Export Control matters, CFIUS / foreign investment matters, Special Projects, Complex Investigations, Emerging Threats, and sensitive investigative requests from Executive Leadership Team, Legal, or Audit. Mark is also a member of Key’s Insider Risk working group.
 
Before joining Key in 2016, Mark was with US Bank, where he was SVP and AML Intelligence Director. Prior to US Bank, Mark worked for the FBI, where he was a Certified Intelligence Officer and worked on counterterrorism, counterintelligence, cyber, and criminal matters (including as a member of the US Attorney’s Office SAR Review Team). Among the matters Mark has worked were a counterterrorism assignment in Iraq, the Benghazi attack, the Boston Marathon bombing, and the Minneapolis al-Shabaab network. Before joining the FBI, Mark worked in Legal / Compliance with various financial services companies. Mark is a licensed attorney with a MBA in Finance. Mark is a member of the US Department of Treasury’s BSA Advisory Group and a FBI working group.

 

Key Bank


Meet Your Hosts

Brian Svoboda-Kindle

SVP Product and Programming

As SVP of Product and Programming for ACFCS, Brian oversees the development and delivery of training content to the association’s global community of financial crime professionals, including certification programs, live and online training events, and online courses. He also assisted in the construction of the Certified Financial Crime Specialist (CFCS) examination, and collaborates with a group of global financial crime experts to maintain and update the credential on an ongoing basis. Previously, he served as the Executive Director, and the association’s Editorial Director.

Before joining ACFCS, he conducted research and advocacy work on public policy issues for national and regional non-profit organizations, and was a freelance journalist. He is a graduate of Duke University.

ACFCS

Cheyenne Vyska

Sr Training Manager

Cheyenne Vyska is a Senior Training Manager at the Association of Certified Financial Crime Specialists (ACFCS), where she has been advancing financial crime prevention education since 2022.

Cheyenne brings specialized expertise in investigations, KYC and onboarding, cryptocurrency, and international money transfer compliance. Prior to her current role, Cheyenne worked as an Industry Onboarding Analyst at Coinbase, where she helped integrate new business users into the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

Her background also includes AML Compliance positions at WorldRemit and Promontory Financial Group (an IBM Company), where she developed strong skills in regulatory compliance and financial crime detection.

ACFCS

Frequently Asked Questions

Registration

How do I register?

Purchase your seat(s) above!

Following your purchase, a confirmation email will be sent within 1-2 business days. The confirmination email will include, among other details, the Zoom registration link. Please be on the look out!

Can we register as a group?

For groups of 10 or more please reach out for more information on group rates: Contact Us Here

Can I cancel my registration?

Registrations are non-refundable per the refund policy below.

E-learning services are intangible goods. As such, they are impossible to return once accessed, and we cannot provide any refunds for purchased e-learning products. Refunds will only be provided in instances where we are unable to provide you with the e-learning package that you purchased from us. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions to learn more.

If you have extenuating circumstances, please contact customer service at customerservice@acfcs.org.

When Should I register?

Registration closes the day prior to the workshop. For the best user experience, we recommend registering at least 2 days prior to the workshop to allow time to complete any pre-work and your registration through Zoom.


Access

How do I access the virtual workshop?

This Workshop is hosted on Zoom.

  • The confirmation email will contain the Zoom registration link.
  • Please ensure you register through Zoom.
  • Once you register through Zoom, you will be sent a confirmation email from Zoom with your unique link and a calendar appointment.
  • On the day of the event, click on your link to join the event contained within the calendar appointment or your Zoom confirmation email (Please check your "other/spam" folder if you cannot find the confirmation email in your inbox.
  • Cameras and mics will be on so be sure you are camera ready or please feel free to turn off your camera.

What if I lose my login credentials?

Please contact our support team at customerservice@acfcs.org. Our team will resend you the Zoom confirmation email with your unique link to join the workshop.

Technical Requirements

What are the System Requirements?

Operating System: Windows 10/11, macOS 10.13+, Linux, Chrome OS, iOS, or Android
Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge (latest versions recommended)
Internet Connection: Minimum 1.5 Mbps upload/download speed (3+ Mbps recommended)
Hardware: Webcam and microphone (built-in or external)

Will I need to download any software?

Software Requirements

No additional software download required for browser access

Optional: Zoom App Installation & Setup

  • Download the Zoom client from zoom.us/download before the workshop
  • Test your setup at zoom.us/test
  • Create a free Zoom account if you don't already have one
  • Ensure your Zoom client is updated to the latest version

I am having difficulties with Zoom, what do I do?

Troubleshooting

  • If audio/video issues occur, try refreshing your browser or restarting the Zoom client
  • Disable VPN connections which may interfere with video streaming
  • Close unused applications to improve performance
  • Switch to a wired ethernet connection if WiFi is unstable
  • If completely disconnected, rejoin using the same link

Will I need audio / video capabilities?

Yes! This workshop is interactive, please come prepared to be on camera and on mic!

Audio/Video Requirements

  • Webcam or built-in camera for video meetings
  • Microphone (built-in or external)
  • Speakers or headphones
  • Recommended: Headset with microphone for best audio quality

During the Workshop?

What interactive features are available during the workshop?

Webinar Interaction

Q&A Panel: Submit questions to presenters anytime during the session
Chat: Send messages to hosts, panelists, or other attendees
Polls: Participate in interactive polls launched by the host
Raise Hand: Virtually raise your hand to be recognized
Reactions: Use emoji reactions to provide non-verbal feedback

What if I experience technical difficulties during the event?

Troubleshooting

  • If audio/video issues occur, try refreshing your browser or restarting the Zoom client
  • Disable VPN connections which may interfere with video streaming
  • Close unused applications to improve performance
  • Switch to a wired ethernet connection if WiFi is unstable
  • If completely disconnected, rejoin using the same link

If you need additional assistance, please contact customerservice@acfcs.org

Will a recording be available?

No. To facilitate the most open and actionable dialogues, workshops will not be recorded and will not be recorded or available for viewing on-demand.

Where do I find my Certificate of Participation?

Certificates of Participation will be provided via email following the completion of the workshop.

Additional Support

I am not based in the United States, is this Workshop still relevant to me?

While the content and examples will primarily focus on US best practices and standards, the core principles and strategies discussed may be applicable across many international contexts.

Where can I find help during the event?

Support is available through our help desk:
- Help desk email: customerservice@acfcs.org

Where do I find more information on CFCS?

Interested in getting certified? Find more information here: CFCS Certification Overview

Where do I find more information on Enterprise and Group pricing?

Interested in getting an Enterprise or Group Package? Find more information here for groups of 10 or more : Enterprise Solutions and Groups

Where is my certificate of participation?

Certificates will be provided via email following the completion of the workshop.

How do I get involved with ACFCS?

How do I become a speaker?

Interested in Speaking at an ACFCS event? Tell us more!
Complete a Speaker Interest Form Here!

How do I become an event sponsor?

Interested in Sponsoring a future ACFCS Event?

Check out our Sponsors page to learn more or fill out this form to get in touch.

How do I become a contributor?

State Your Case Podcast
Do you have an interesting financial crime case that you have worked on? Has it been adjudicated and is ready for prime time? Whether you are public or private sector we want to hear from you! Check out the State Your Case Podcast Interest Form here!

 


Want more learning?

Check out our Human Trafficking certificate course here!

Check out our upcoming events, webinars and eLearning opportunities!

What everyone is saying...

The CFCS tests the skills necessary to fight financial crime. It's comprehensive. Passing it should be considered a mark of high achievement, distinguishing qualified experts in this growing specialty area.

KENNETH E. BARDEN 

CFCS, Washington, DC

The exam tests one's ability to apply concepts in practical scenarios. Passing it can be a great asset for professionals in the converging disciplines of financial crime.

DANIEL DWAIN

CFCS, Chief Compliance Officer, Cidel Bank & Trust Inc. New York, NY

The Exam is far-reaching. I love that the questions are scenario based. I recommend it to anyone in the financial crime detection and prevention profession.

BECKI LAPORTE
CFCS, Principal - AML Strategy and Innovation, FinScan, Atlanta, GA

This certification comes at a very ripe time. Professionals can no longer get away with having siloed knowledge. Compliance is all-encompassing and enterprise-driven.

KATYA GOZIAS
CFCS, Los Angeles, CA