A 33-year-old Scarborough man has been charged in connection with a human trafficking investigation, and London police are warning that there may be additional victims. The case came to light after a woman contacted authorities on April 30, reporting ongoing exploitation related to the provision of sexual services.
Allegations Span Several Years
According to a police statement released Wednesday, investigators allege that between 2023 and April 2026, the man encouraged the victim to provide sexual services in exchange for money. The exact date in 2023 when the alleged conduct began has not been disclosed.
Police further allege that the man exerted control over the woman by dictating where and when she worked, setting prices for her services, managing online advertisements, and communicating with clients. The victim was reportedly directed to provide sexual services to clients in multiple cities across Ontario.
Victim Attempts to End Relationship
In April 2026, the victim attempted to end the relationship and requested no further contact from the accused. However, police say the man continued to attend her residence uninvited. On April 30, the man brought the victim to London, where a dispute occurred that resulted in damage to the victim's cellphone. The victim then contacted police.
Charges Laid
The 33-year-old Scarborough man faces the following charges:
- Trafficking in persons
- Receiving a financial or material benefit from trafficking in persons (those over 18 years)
- Procuring
- Material benefit from sexual services
- Advertising another person's sexual services
- Criminal harassment by repeatedly following
- Mischief under $5,000
The man was arrested Tuesday by members of the Toronto Police Service and remains in custody. He appeared in a London court on Wednesday in relation to the charges.
Police Believe There May Be Additional Victims
Investigators believe there may be other victims and are sharing the accused's photograph in hopes of identifying them. Police emphasize that human trafficking often involves the exploitation of a person through fear, control, or manipulation for financial gain.
"Warning signs may include someone being closely monitored or controlled, having limited access to identification or personal belongings, working excessively long hours, or appearing fearful, anxious, or submissive," police said. "Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or who has information about human trafficking, is encouraged to seek help and report it to police."
Anyone with information is asked to call London police at 519-661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
