SUDBURY -- Update:
North Bay police say further investigation into a human trafficking case that began on Nov. 1 has revealed that the man accused gave officers a false name and is actually 25-years-old.
As a result, the accused faces additional charges, including: obstructing police, identity theft, and breach of probation.
He remains in custody.
Police say they believe there are more victims involved.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers.
Original:
SUDBURY -- The North Bay police say they have arrested a 26-year-old Ottawa man suspected of human trafficking after an alleged assault of a sex worker.
Police officials say officers responded to a disturbance at a motel on Lakeshore Drive on Friday.
They say a female, working for the accused as an escort, allegedly got into an argument with the suspect and that it turned physical.
Police say as a result of an investigation, the suspect is now facing a number of charges related to human trafficking and assault.
When the man was taken into custody, police say they seized a quantity of cash.
The accused remains in custody pending a bail hearing at the North Bay Courthouse.
Victims of human trafficking can be eligible to receive support from the Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP+). Support can include: residential treatment, basic necessities, counselling, and safety devices. To apply for VQRP+, contact Victim Services of Nipissing District 705-472-2649.
Support and information can also be obtained by calling the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline 1-833-900-1010.
