The Halton Police has arrested a Brampton man following an investigation into human trafficking.
29 year-old Gavin Reid of Brampton was arrested on Saturday, March 20th in Barrie.
Reid has been charged with the following:
- Trafficking in Persons
- Procuring – Provide Sexual Services for Consideration
- Knowingly Advertise Sexual Services
- Withhold or Destroy Identity/Documents
- Receive Material Benefit resulting from Trafficking in Persons
- Receive Material Benefit resulting from Sexual Services
- Forcible Confinement
- Aggravated Assault
Reid also goes by the alias of ‘Blaze’. The survivor in this investigation was trafficked within Halton and surrounding jurisdictions. It’s believed that there may be more survivors.
The HRPS issued a ‘thank you’ to the Barrie Police Service for their assistance and collaboration in this investigation.
Police believe there are additional victims in regards to this investigation and are asking anyone who has come into contact with Gavin Reid or has information to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 5331.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
Victims of violence and/or sexual assault and witnesses are encouraged to contact the Halton Regional Police Service. The following is a list of valuable support services and resources in our region for victims of violence and/or sexual assault:
- Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit 905-825-4777 ext. 5239 or by email at VictimServices@haltonpolice.ca
- Nina’s Place Sexual Assault and Domestic Assault Care Centre 905-336-4116 or 905-681-4880
- Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services (SAVIS) 905-875-1555 (24-hour crisis line)
- Radius Child & Youth Services 905-825-3242 (Oakville) or 1-855-744-9001
- Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 (24-hour crisis line)
- THRIVE Counselling 905-845-3811 or 905-637-5256
Signs / Indicators of Human Trafficking
- Not being allowed to speak for themselves;
- Not having control of their own money or cellphone;
- Suddenly having a new or second cell phone with a secret number;
- Being controlled by others and escorted at all times;
- Not being allowed to contact family or friends;
- Withdrawing from family and friends;
- Providing rehearsed answers to casual questions;
- Being secretive about their activities;
- Showing signs of abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns, fractures, etc.
- Having a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won’t introduce to friends/family; and
- Having new items (clothing, jewelry etc.) outside their financial means.
What Should I Do if I Think Someone is a Victim of Trafficking?
If there is immediate danger or if you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1.
You may also call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.
