Male in Custody for Trafficking Underage Female

A male is in custody following a human trafficking investigation involving a 16-year-old female.

On Friday, February 23, 2024, members of the Human Trafficking Unit, with the assistance of the East Division Criminal Investigations Branch, conducted an investigation into an online advertisement for sexual services provided by a female believed to be underage.  The investigation confirmed the female was 16-years-old and staying at a residence in Brampton.  The female was located and brought to a place of safety without incident.

On Thursday, March 21, 2024, members of the Human Trafficking Unit attended the same residence in Brampton.  The subject of the investigation was observed leaving the residence in his vehicle.  Police initiated a traffic stop and took the male into custody without incident. 

Dane GIFFORD, age 34 from Brampton is charged with: Procuring/Exercising Control of a Person Under 18, and Advertising Another Persons Sexual Services.

He was released on an Undertaking.

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 that needs free, confidential support without judgement. 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.

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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