New Signs Raise Awareness about Human Trafficking

Members of the DRPS CARE Team, in collaboration with Durham Regional Crime Stoppers and the Region of Durham are raising awareness about human trafficking (HT) with new signage in Whitby and Oshawa.

Large signs have been installed along the 401 corridor on Consumers Drive in Whitby and Bloor Street West in Oshawa.  These locations were selected as HT “hot spots” after an analysis of HT incidents.  Permanent signage was created in an effort to raise awareness about human trafficking, and provide a constant reminder to all those traveling within these areas.

In 2022, the DRPS Human Trafficking Unit investigated 277 incidents that involved elements of human trafficking. Of these incidents, 225 individuals (112 under 18 years of age) were assisted/provided services, either due to their involvement in human trafficking or their risk of becoming involved in human trafficking-related activity. As a result of these investigations, 107 charges were laid, and 88 accused/people of interest were identified.

As of October 31, 2023, the Human Trafficking Unit has investigated 244 incidents involving elements of human trafficking. Of these incidents, 204 individuals (100 under 18 years of age) were assisted/provided services either due to their involvement in human trafficking or their risk of becoming involved in human-trafficking related activity. As a result of these investigations, 96 charges were laid against 23 people, and 71 accused/people of interest were identified.

For more information on human trafficking visit stopHT.com