A 25 year old Owen Sound man is in custody, following an investigation by the Owen Sound Police Service Criminal Investigation Branch and Drug Unit, into Human Trafficking.
The investigation revealed that the accused had been coercing a 17 year old female to work as a prostitute for the past several months and used threats and intimidation, including threats with a firearm, to maintain control and compliance of the victim.
The accused was arrested late yesterday afternoon as he left his Lamson Crescent residence. Upon arrest, the suspect was found to be in possession of a small quantity of cocaine.
A subsequent search warrant was executed at the accused’s residence. An additional quantity of approximately 95 grams of cocaine (approximate street value $9500) was located and seized as well as a small quantity of heroin and marihuana. Two rifles were also located and seized.
David D’Souza of Owen Sound is charged with:
1. Human Trafficking of a Person Under 18 years
2. Receive Financial Benefit from Human Trafficking
3. Living off the Avails of Prostitution -Under 18 years
4. Procure Prostitution
5. Make Available Child Pornography
6. Sexual Assault
7. Point Firearm
8. Use Firearm in Commission of Indictable Offence
9. Threaten Death
10. Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
11. Possession of Marihuana
12. Possession of Heroin
13. Possession of a Prohibited Weapon
The accused has been held in custody pending a bail hearing. The Owen Sound Police is continuing the investigation to determine if any additional victims are involved.