The Montreal police service (SPVM) is enhancing its efforts to combat sexual exploitation by expanding its team with 15 new resources next week. With these additional personnel, the existing team of nearly 50 investigators will be able to intensify their fight against sexual exploitation on the Island of Montreal.
This expansion was made possible by funding confirmed in the spring by the Ministry of Public Security as part of the Quebec government’s action plan on sexual exploitation. The new resources will help establish a Montreal hub within two integrated squads: the Integrated Pimping Squad (EILP) and the Integrated Child Pornography Squad (EILP-J).
Cmdr. Frédéric Martineau, head of the SPVM’s sexual exploitation unit, expressed that the creation of this hub will improve collaboration on criminal investigations with police forces from Quebec and elsewhere in Canada, making their efforts more effective in supporting victims and targeting perpetrators.
The SPVM’s sexual exploitation unit, which has been operating for nearly 25 years, is known for its specialized expertise in assisting and supporting victims. They run programs like Survivantes and work closely with organizations such as the Crime Victims Assistance Centre (CAVAC) and the SPHÈRES program to support Montrealers aged 12 to 24 experiencing sexual exploitation.
Individuals who have experienced sexual exploitation or know someone who may have been a victim are encouraged to come forward. They can visit their local police station, call 911 to file a complaint or make a statement, or provide information anonymously to Info-Crime Montréal at 514-393-1133 or through the online form at infocrimemontreal.ca.
The SPVM expressed gratitude towards the public for their cooperation in combating sexual exploitation.
