Durham Police Arrest 21-Year-Old for Grooming, Sexual Offences Against Minor
A 21-year-old Scarborough man has been charged with sexually exploiting a 14-year-old girl in Durham Region after police uncovered what they believe was an attempt to groom her for human trafficking. Authorities warn there may be more victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Durham Regional Police Service’s Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) launched an investigation on February 7 after learning that the victim had been contacted online by a man using the name ‘Ace’ on Snapchat. The suspect, who falsely claimed to be 18, continued communicating with the girl even after she informed him of her age. Over time, the two met on several occasions, raising concerns about grooming for trafficking.
On Wednesday, police executed a search warrant at a residence on Brimley Road in Scarborough, where the accused was arrested without incident.
Hammad Abowath, 21, has been charged with:
- Sexual interference with a person under 16
- Invitation to sexual touching under 16 years of age
Abowath was held for a bail hearing, and investigators continue to probe the extent of his activities.
Police Seeking More Victims
Authorities suspect that Abowath may have targeted additional victims and are urging anyone with information to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may qualify for a cash reward.
Survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation can access confidential support through:
- Durham Region’s Human Trafficking Network: www.stopht.com
- Victim Services of Durham Region: www.victimservicesdurham.ca
Authorities are urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant about online interactions and to talk to their children about the dangers of digital grooming and exploitation.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the growing risks young people face in the digital age, with law enforcement working to identify and protect those at risk.