Durham police yesterday said one suspect has been arrested and another is sought in a human trafficking investigation which commenced in December.
The Human Trafficking Unit commenced an investigation after a female victim in her twenties contacted investigators. The victim, whom was reported missing by family members, befriended a male and female who forced her into the sex trade. She was assaulted by the two suspects when she attempted to leave. Police were able to locate the male suspect who was arrested in Toronto and continue to look for the female suspect, said a police media release.
This is an ongoing investigation.
Dontai Ellis, age 23, of Oakwood Avenue in Toronto, is charged with: Trafficking in Person by Recruiting/Exercise Control; Procuring; Material Benefit of Trafficking Person Over 18; Material Benefit from Sexual Services; Advertising Sexual Services; Assault Cause Bodily Harm and Obtaining Sexual Services. He was held for a bail hearing.
Anyone with new information is asked to contact D/Cst. Hurst of the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5606.