Brampton Man Faces Multiple Charges in Historic Human Trafficking Investigation
A 46-year-old Brampton man is confronting numerous serious charges following allegations that he trafficked an underage girl across southern Ontario during the early 2010s. James Kenneth West was arrested on Friday and now faces 17 criminal offences, including procuring a person to be a prostitute, trafficking in persons under 18 years by exercising control, sexual interference, uttering threats, and sexual assault.
Police Investigation Uncovers Years of Alleged Abuse
Toronto Police revealed that their human trafficking unit initiated an investigation in 2024, focusing on allegations that a female victim was trafficked between 2013 and 2016. According to authorities, the accused employed a combination of deception, coercion, and control to exploit the victim. Police further allege that the suspect drugged and sexually assaulted the victim, creating and posting online advertisements for sexual services that included sexualized pictures and videos.
In a statement issued Tuesday, police expressed concern that there may be additional victims connected to this case. They are urging anyone with information to come forward by contacting them directly at 416-808-4838, via email at humantrafficking@torontopolice.on.ca, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-8477 or 222tips.com.
Related Firearms and Drug Bust in North York
In a separate but connected development, Toronto Police conducted a raid in North York that resulted in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of significant contraband. The operation, which took place in the Ranee Avenue and Varna Drive area near Yorkdale Shopping Centre, led to the confiscation of three semi-automatic handguns, ammunition, and cocaine.
The five suspects—Eh Htoo Na, 27; Thu Ya Oo, 30; Gu Htoo, 47; Eh Tha Nay, 23; and Eh Nay Ta, 21—are jointly charged with multiple offences, including possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of an unauthorized firearm, possession of a loaded firearm, and careless storage of a firearm.
Ongoing Search for Assault Suspect in Entertainment District
Meanwhile, Toronto Police are actively seeking a male suspect involved in a violent incident that occurred last year in the Entertainment District. The investigation centers on an aggravated assault that took place on April 12, 2025, in the Pearl and Duncan Streets area, where a fight between two groups resulted in life-altering injuries to one victim.
The suspect is described as a man in his 20s, approximately 5-foot-8 with a thin build, short black hair, and a black moustache. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black athletic-style balaclava, a shiny black puffer-style jacket, a white shirt, black pants, and black shoes. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact them at 416-808-5200 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Toronto Police to combat serious crimes, including human trafficking and firearm-related offences, across the Greater Toronto Area. The charges against James Kenneth West represent a significant step in addressing historical abuses and ensuring accountability for alleged perpetrators.
