In this conversation, Jenn from Heartly House engages with Lindsay Carpenter, Chief Assistant State's Attorney, and Jennifer, Director of Community-Based Services at Heartly House, to discuss the critical issue of human trafficking. They explore the definition of human trafficking, its prevalence in Frederick County, and the importance of community awareness and prevention. The discussion highlights the role of the Regional Navigator Program and the Human Trafficking Response Team, emphasizing the need for collaboration among community partners to support survivors and prevent trafficking. The upcoming Human Trafficking Summit (in January 2026) is also discussed, focusing on education and awareness for professionals who may encounter victims and survivors. The conversation concludes with a call to action for the community to recognize and report trafficking.To learn more about the Human Trafficking Response Team in Frederick County and to register for their annual Human Trafficking Summit head to http://frederickcountymd.gov/7672/Human-Trafficking-Response-Team.

In this episode of The Heart Beat, Abbey and Jenn discuss pressing issues in the Frederick County community, focusing on intimate partner violence, domestic violence, gun violence, and innovative solutions like apps developed during a hackathon at Brown University. They explore the implications of extreme risk protective orders (ERPOs) and the ongoing controversy surrounding Uber and Lyft's safety measures for women passengers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community resources and accountability in ensuring safety for all individuals.

Violence prevention is at the core of the work we do, and this episode dives deep into one of the most important, and often misunderstood, tools for community safety: Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs).

We sit down with Jay Hessler from the Frederick County Health Department and newly appointed Chief Meyer of the Frederick Police Department for a clear, candid conversation about how ERPOs work, who can file them, and what the process looks like from both health and law-enforcement perspectives.

Together, we explore the impacts on individuals, families, and the broader Frederick community, break down common misconceptions, and discuss how ERPOs fit into larger violence prevention strategies. If you’ve ever wondered what ERPOs actually do (and don’t do) this episode is a must-listen.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm please contact the following organizations for support. Call the U.S. national suicide and crisis lifeline at 988 or if you are local to Frederick County Maryland, call the Mental Health Association helpline at 211 or 866-411-6803. The Mental Health Association of Frederick County also has a walk-in crisis clinic located at 340 Montevue Lane, Frederick, MD 21702.