A 33-year-old Chatham man is facing human trafficking charges in connection with an investigation into a disturbance at a local motel.
Chatham-Kent police said they were called to the scene shortly after 4 a.m. on December 17, 2020, adding that the accused was arrested as a result of the investigation and initially charged with domestic and drug-related charges.
Police said the man was arrested again on December 24, 2020 after officers learned from the victim that the man had allegedly been exploiting her.
As a result, the man was charged with five offences related to human trafficking and was taken into custody pending a future court date of January 15, 2021.
Following the arrest, CK Police Chief Gary Conn noted that human trafficking is a "complex and hidden crime" adding that it also results in serious and long-term trauma for survivors.
"Human trafficking involves the recruitment, transportation or harbouring of persons for the purposes of exploitation, typically in the sex industry or for forced labour," said Chief Conn. "The reality is that human trafficking is real and it is here in our community... 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."
The Chatham-Kent Police is reminding everyone that support services are available through CK Victim Services 519-436-6630 or https://ckvictimservices.com/.
They have also provided the following warning signs that someone may be being exploited:
- - 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
