A 17-year-old girl from Saskatchewan, believed to have been lured to Edmonton for sex work, was rescued with the assistance of a friend who alerted the police. Another teenager, also coerced into the sex trade from British Columbia, was identified during the investigation. The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) has charged three suspects with various human trafficking offenses.
The initial tip about the Saskatchewan teenager came in May, and the friend acted swiftly by involving the Edmonton police. As a result, the girl was rescued before experiencing physical sexual exploitation, according to Staff Sgt. Christopher Hayes.
Edmonton police initially received the call for help, and the case was subsequently handed over to ALERT’s human trafficking unit. Hayes emphasized that these investigations are challenging without cooperation from victims, making it crucial for individuals to reach out for help.
During the investigation, a second teenager was identified as a victim of human trafficking. This teen had been coerced into the sex trade from British Columbia. On June 28, police conducted searches of two homes and three vehicles, leading to the seizure of electronic devices, two loaded handguns, nearly $50,000 in cash, and approximately 90 grams of cocaine. ALERT stated that a follow-up investigation would focus on the firearms to determine their origin.
Hayes described the case as an organized crime investigation involving a cross-Canada organization with gang ties. The three accused individuals are Christopher Mucheni (29 years old), Lauren Wise (22 years old), and Demsey Lorquet-Maura (30 years old). ALERT did not release a photo of Wise due to ongoing investigations.
Hayes revealed that investigators interviewed a third teenager and a 19-year-old woman who were believed to have been groomed by the suspects. Both young women are now receiving appropriate support.
ALERT provided a list of signs to watch out for that may indicate human trafficking, such as acquiring new clothing and accessories without financial means, distancing oneself from family and friends, traveling to other cities, being secretive about whereabouts, and having unfamiliar friends.
Victims of sexual exploitation can report incidents to the Edmonton Police Service by calling 780-423-4567 or dialing 9-1-1 in cases of immediate danger. Support can also be sought from the Safety Network Coordinator with CEASE by contacting 780-471-6137.
Hayes noted that while the crime of human trafficking has existed for a long time, increased awareness is leading to more cases coming to light. He encouraged victims to come forward and assured them of the authorities’ commitment to support and assist them, working in conjunction with other support agencies.
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