On March 2, March 9 and March 10, 2017, police focused their enforcement efforts on persons purchasing sexual services from sex trade workers online and along the 95 Street and 118 Avenue corridors.
Over the course of three days, a total of 26 individuals were arrested and charged. Members from Metis Child & Family Services also partnered with Vice Unit members, speaking with sex trade workers offering support and outreach. Ages of the men arrested and charged ranged between 20 and 70.
Charges:
Communication for the Purpose of Obtaining Sexual Services x 21
Trafficking in a Controlled Substance
Breach of Recognizance x 2
Resist Arrest
“Young families and their children live in these communities,” said Staff Sgt. Dale Johnson, of the EPS VICE Unit. “They deserve to feel safe and proud of their communities, and shouldn’t have to share their streets with ‘johns’ looking for sex.”
“We intend to reduce the demand for buying sexual services through enforcement efforts targeting ‘johns’. The goal is to positively impact the neighbourhoods and businesses affected by this type of illegal activity”.
Johnson added: “The message to those who would participate in the sexual exploitation of others is that the EPS is vigilant and we’re going to catch you, whether you’re cruising online or at street level.”
Citizens are encouraged to call police if they witness anyone soliciting sex in their neighbourhood on the Report-a-John line at 780-421-2656, EPS non-emergency complaint line at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.