Five Arrested and Firearms Seized in Human Trafficking Investigation
Five people have been arrested and two firearms were seized as a result of Project Aserale, an investigation into human trafficking.
In 2023, London Police Service (LPS) started a human trafficking investigation involving a male suspect residing in Pickering. In 2024, DRPS took over the investigation, establishing a Provincial Human Trafficking Intelligence-Led Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS) team with LPS.
As part of the investigation, members of the DRPS Human Trafficking, Tactical Support, Robbery and Offender Management Units executed Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances search warrants at residences in Pickering, Thorold and Oshawa. Investigators seized several items, including two firearms, approximately 1.5 kgs of cocaine, a large quantity of other narcotics and more than $115,000 in cash. Several individuals at these residences were also arrested and charged.
The accused was using various adult entertainment establishments and online platforms to traffic victims throughout the GTA. The suspect was arrested on March 22, 2025 and is facing multiple charges, including human trafficking and robbery related charges in relation to four victims. Police are concerned there may be additional victims and are releasing his photo.
His photo can be viewed at www.drps.ca
Michael MITCHELL, age 33, of Pickering is charged with multiple offences, including: Trafficking in Persons x2; Material Benefits from Sexual Services; Procuring/Exercising Control; Procuring/Recruit Person to Provide Sexual Services; Careless Storage of a Firearm x2; Robbery; Possess Loaded Firearm x2 and Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (percocet).
Katelyn SERGNESE, age 26, of Thorold is charged with: Careless Storage of a Firearm x2; Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm x2; Possess a Loaded Firearm x2 and Possession Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (percocet).
Evan MITCHELL, age 31, of Pickering is charged with: Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purposes of Trafficking x2 (cocaine; percocet) and Possess Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.
Nathan MITCHELL, age 31, of Pickering is charged with: Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (hydromorphone).
Christopher LEVASSEUR, age 37, of Oshawa is charged with: Possession of Schedule I Substance for the Purposes of Trafficking (cocaine) and Fail to Comply with a Release Order.
All were held for bail hearing.
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.
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.
The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General, in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation.
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 cash reward.
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