Male Arrested for Human Trafficking
Police have arrested a male following the completion of a human trafficking investigation.
On Wednesday, August 28, 2024, members of the Human Trafficking Unit (HTU), with the assistance of the Peterborough Police Service Human Trafficking Unit, executed a search warrant on a residence and two vehicles. Numerous items relating to the offences were seized, and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
Pavithiran CHANDRAKUMAR, age 29 from Clarington is charged with: Material Benefit from Sexual Services, Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration, and Exercising Control x2.
He was held for a bail hearing.
Police are concerned there may be other victims and are requesting anyone with information to come forward. A photo of the suspect is attached and can be viewed at www.drps.ca
Anyone with cell phone, dashcam, surveillance footage, or information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Heron of the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5697.
The DRPS thanks the Ontario Government for its funding support of our Children at Risk of Exploitation (CARE) unit. Our CARE unit combines the expertise of police officers and child protection workers to identify, investigate, locate and engage with children and youth at high risk of child sex trafficking. If you or someone you know has been affected by human trafficking, please come forward to our investigators for support. The Region of Durham has established a support network for survivors, accessible through www.stopht.com. Parents and caregivers can also use this resource to educate children about recognizing the signs of human trafficking.
Victim Services of Durham Region offers confidential support without judgement, available at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.
Together, we can make a difference in combating human trafficking. If you have any information or concerns, please reach out to the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit.
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.
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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