Retail workers targeted in Ontario human trafficking operation: police [Video]

Police believe retail industry workers were targeted in a human trafficking operation that prompted an investigation resulting in multiple charges against an Oshawa man.

The Durham Regional Police Human Trafficking Unit launched the investigation in January after learning of a woman being trafficked in Oshawa. Officers executed search warrants at a home near Park Road and Johnson Avenue Wednesday and arrested 39-year-old Adrian Austin.

A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of evidence to support human trafficking as well as “unregulated” cannabis.

Austin has been charged with human trafficking, material benefits from sexual services, procuring/exercising control and two cannabis trafficking counts.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Police believe the accused may have been targeting victims working in retail establishments and are concerned there may be additional victims.

Anyone who has been victimized by the accused or has any information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at …