Violence, psychological harm used in Ontario human trafficking operation, say police [Video]

Police say coercion, manipulation, physical violence, and psychological harm were used to control several women who were trafficked for sex in Halton Region.

Police say two men are now facing several charges in connection to the crimes.

Last July, Halton police launched their investigation, which uncovered financial transactions used in the trafficking operation. Police allege the ringleaders used several techniques to maintain control and influence over the victims while they benefitted financially from the exploitation.

Then, on March 20, police raided two Oakville homes, where they found cocaine, cash, a stolen motorcycle, electronic devices and victim identity documents.

As a result, the following individuals were been arrested, charged and held for bail:

Rayon Powell (38) of Oakville, aliases of ‘Dante,’ ‘Michael Williams’ and ‘Kash’:

• Trafficking in persons (two counts)
• Material benefits from trafficking in persons (two counts)
• Material benefits from sexual services (three counts)
• Procuring (six counts)
• Advertise sexual services (three counts)
• Breach of probation (three counts)
• Sexual …