Toronto authorities have apprehended and pressed charges against a 46-year-old man from Brampton in connection with an extensive and brutal human trafficking scheme that reportedly lasted for several years and involved a minor.
The Toronto Police Service launched an inquiry into the matter in 2024. It was revealed that between 2013 and 2016, the accused utilized deceit, manipulation, and dominance to transport a young female victim throughout southern Ontario.
Allegedly, the suspect created and circulated online advertisements for sexual services, capturing sexualized images and videos of the victim to enable the exploitation. Investigators suggest that the victim was subjected to drugging and sexual assault during the trafficking period.
On January 30, law enforcement officers apprehended the suspect, identified as James Kenneth West, 46, residing in Brampton. He was placed under arrest.
West is charged with numerous offenses, including sexual assault, assault, sexual exploitation of a minor, and sexual interference with a minor under 16, among others.
Authorities state that the victim was trafficked across various locations in southern Ontario, and they suspect there may be other victims who have yet to come forward.
The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are encouraging anyone with relevant information to reach out to the TPS Human Trafficking Unit.