A Male is in Custody Following a Human Trafficking Investigation
A male is in custody following a human trafficking investigation in Oshawa.
On Friday, December 8, 2023, at approximately 4:10 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to a check on well-being call in the area of Laval Drive and Stevenson Road, in Oshawa. Officers located a female who advised she was left stranded by a male who had forced her to work in the sex trade.
On Tuesday, March 12, 2024, following an investigation by the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the area of Jarvis Street and Dundas Street in the city of Toronto. The male suspect was located and taken into custody without incident.
Investigators have concerns there may be more victims and are releasing photos of the accused.
Tajae REID, age 23 from Toronto is charged with numerous offences including: Trafficking in Persons, Financial/Material Benefit from Sexual Services, Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration, Procuring, Advertising Sexual Service, Disobey Court Order, Breach Probation and Possession of Cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.
He was held for a bail hearing.
Anyone who has been victimized by the accused or has any information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600.
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.
Victim Services of Durham Region is available for anyone who needs free, confidential support without judgment. Visit their website at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.
Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.
The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation. These allegations have yet to be proven in court.
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