The Chatham-Kent Police Service have laid human trafficking charges after an investigation, which began last month.
Police officials allege on December 17, 2020, shortly after 4 a.m. police responded to a disturbance at a motel in Chatham.
A 33-year-old Chatham man was arrested and charged with domestic and drug related charges.
Police allege through further investigation, the victim disclosed that the man had been exploiting her.
As a result, on December 24, 2020, the man was arrested and charged with multiple charges related to Human Trafficking:
– Human Trafficking
– Receiving Material Benefit
– Derive Material Benefit
– Exercise Control, direction or influence
– Advertise section
He has been remanded into custody pending a future court date of January 15, 2021.
“Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation or harbouring of persons for the purposes of exploitation, typically in the sex industry or for forced labour,” stated Chief Gary Conn in a media release.
“The reality is that human trafficking is real and it is here in our community. Human trafficking is a complex and hidden crime. It is also a human rights violation that results in serious and long-term trauma for survivors.”
Chief Conn added: “Although we can’t provide more information regarding this specific investigation, as the matter is now before the courts, we would like to encourage those, who believe they may be a victim of human trafficking or know of someone who is being exploited, to please find the strength to come forward. Help and support services are available.”
Police officials say warning signs that someone may be being exploited, include:
– Fear for one’s safety or the safety of a loved one
– Unexplained bruises or other signs of physical abuse
– Tattoos or branding
– Lack of life’s necessities (medical care, food, clothing)
– New expensive clothing, purses, jewelry
– Addiction to drugs and / or alcohol
– Changes in behaviour (depression, anxiety)
– Freedom of movement (seems to be restricted)
– Cryptic text messages and conversations
– No passport or identification
– A new partner and / or friends nobody knows
– Signs of isolation
For more information about human trafficking, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/human-trafficking or https://www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca/.
The Chatham-Kent Police would like to remind everyone that support services are available through CK Victim Services 519-436-6630 or https://ckvictimservices.com/.
