Human Trafficking

Sexual Human Trafficking is defined as, “Every person who recruits, transports, transfers, holds, conceals or harbours a person, or exercises control, direction or influence over the movements of a person, for the purpose of sexually exploiting them or facilitating their sexual exploitation.”

Human Trafficking for a sexual purpose is a heinous crime that can render the victim with horrifying physical, social and emotional scars.

The Human Trafficking Enforcement Team (HTET) is committed to developing and maintaining a victim-centered approach to human trafficking investigations, ensuring that victims are rescued and their recovery is a priority. This approach places emphasis on Prevention, Protection, Prosecution and Partnerships.

The Human Trafficking Enforcement Team ensures and fosters a balanced approach in regards to human trafficking investigations and enforcement, sensitive to the needs of the victims and the community as a whole. This will be accomplished by focusing on the following proactive and reactive fundamentals, including Victim Support, Education & Training, Investigations, Enforcement and Criminal Prosecutions.

Furthermore, the Team is committed to becoming a leader with respect to the investigation and enforcement of human trafficking, in both public and policing forums, at municipal, provincial and federal levels. The principles guiding this commitment will be recognized through members who exemplify personal excellence, investigative innovation and quality delivery of services.

The Sex Crimes – Human Trafficking Enforcement Team is responsible for:

• Investigations of persons where human trafficking for a sexual purpose and/or a forced labour purpose is alleged or suspected,
• The apprehension and taking to a place of safety persons under the age of 16 years, where human trafficking for a sexual and/or forced labour purpose is alleged or suspected,
• Assisting with providing victim support services and management when required, and
• The arrest and prosecution of offenders involved in human trafficking for a sexual purpose and/or forced labour purpose