Warning: Graphic content
A Toronto man accused of trafficking two victims over a combined 17 years is facing dozens of charges, including allegations that he sexually exploited one of them while she was under 18.
Toronto police said the Human Trafficking Unit launched an investigation in September into suspected human trafficking in the city.
Police allege the suspect, identified as Justin Ferguson, 35, of Toronto, trafficked a 28-year-old victim over a six-year period through a combination of deception, coercion and control. The money earned by the victim was allegedly turned over to Ferguson, who kept it.
Ferguson was arrested on Oct. 13 and charged with several offences, including trafficking in persons, obtaining a material benefit from sexual services and possessing a firearm without a licence.
A full list of charges can be found here.
Following a continued investigation, police allege Ferguson also trafficked a second 28-year-old victim over an 11-year period using similar methods, including deception, coercion and control.
Police allege Ferguson first met the victim and sexually exploited her when she was under the age of 18. The money earned by the victim was also allegedly kept and controlled by Ferguson.
On Oct. 27, officers arrested Ferguson again and charged him with 15 additional offences, including trafficking in persons under 18, obtaining a material benefit from sexual services provided by a person under 18, sexual exploitation of a young person and uttering threats of death or bodily harm.
The charges have not been tested in court.
Police believe that their may be additional victims, and anyone with information is asked to contact at police at 416-808-4838 or humantrafficking@torontopolice.on.ca.
If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety.
- The Canadian Association of Sexual Assault Centres’ website has a comprehensive list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling.
- The Ending Violence Association of Canada‘s website has links to helplines, support services and locations across Canada that offer sexual assault kits.
- Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis lines: +1 866 925 4419 or +1 800 721 0066 (24/7)
- Toronto Rape Crisis Centre crisis line: +1 416 597 8808 (24/7)
- Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: +1 833 900 1010 (24/7)
- Trans Lifeline: +1 877 330 6366
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 988 (24/7)
- Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre for current and former Canadian Armed Forces members: +1 844 750 1648
- Read about your rights as a victim on the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime website.
