Toronto Police Service is warning the public that additional victims may still be unidentified after two Toronto residents were arrested and charged in connection with a human trafficking investigation involving the alleged exploitation of a 23-year-old victim.
Investigators allege the two accused used manipulation, coercion and threats to force the victim into performing sexual services for multiple clients at various locations across the city.
According to police, the victim was transported between locations while all money earned through the alleged exploitation was surrendered to the accused individuals.
The investigation began in April and led officers to execute a search warrant at a Toronto residence on May 22, where both suspects were taken into custody.
Police identified the accused as Kailen Richard Wareham, 35, and Ava Ashouri, 27.
Both individuals are facing seven criminal charges each, including trafficking in persons, procuring, uttering threats and advertising another person’s sexual services.
Investigators say they believe there may be additional victims connected to the case and are urging anyone with information or anyone who may have been affected to come forward.
Toronto police continue to emphasize that human trafficking remains one of the fastest-growing and most underreported crimes in Canada, often involving vulnerable individuals who are manipulated through fear, emotional control, financial dependency or intimidation.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the investigation to contact Toronto Police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.