For a complete list of names and charges click here.
The Durham Regional Police (DRPS) Human Trafficking Unit engages in proactive initiatives which address the purchase of sex from minors in Durham Region. Project Firebird is an on-going initiative that focuses on individuals interested in purchasing sexual services from persons under 18 years of age, as well as providing education and support to victims or potential victims.
This initiative involves the use of undercover officers who pose as young persons advertising sexual services on the internet. They publish an ad to create the illusion that individuals can contact the advertiser to purchase sexual services. Once the suspect reaches out, the undercover officer made it known that they were under the age of 18.
This project would not be possible without the support of the Ontario government funding to our Children at Risk of Exploitation (CARE) unit. Our CARE unit has specialized teams which pairs police officers with child protection workers to proactively identify, investigate, locate, and engage children and youth who are at high risk of child sex trafficking, said a DRPS statement.
It said if you or anyone you know has been or may be involved in a similar situation, please come forward to our highly trained investigators who are here to provide their support.
A support network for survivors of human trafficking has been established in the Region of Durham. These services can be accessed via www.stopht.com. Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to use the resources found on the website to have open discussions with the minors in their lives about recognizing the signs of human trafficking.
Victim Services of Durham Region is available for anyone that needs free, confidential support without judgement. Visit their website at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.
Anyone with any new information about this incident or other incidents, please contact the Detective Constable Heron of the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600.
Editor’s Note: Durham Post does not name the accused as:
1. Of this time, they are suspects and not convicted, and
2. Sometimes charges are dropped or amended.