HT 22-85308

ONE MALE FACING HUMAN TRAFFICKING-RELATED CHARGES
Police suspect there are more victims

LONDON, ON (October 28, 2022) – One man is facing numerous charges following an investigation by the LPS Human Trafficking Unit.

On August 28, 2022, the London Police Service was contacted to check the welfare of a female in the area of Wellington Road and Bradley Avenue. A female was located and disclosed information about a man holding her against her will in a hotel room. A male was arrested nearby without incident.

Through the course of the investigation, it was learned there were additional victims. Between July 1 and August 28, 2022, these victims were forced to perform sexual acts for money in various locations and cities.

As a result of the investigation, Cortez Downey, 26, of Nova Scotia, is charged with the following offences:

• Material benefit from sexual services
• Two (2) counts of procuring/exercising control
• Assault
• Advertising another person’s sexual services
• Obtain sexual services for consideration

The accused remains in custody and is expected in London court on November 16, 2022, in relation to his charges.

Investigators are appealing to members of the public to contact them if they have any information in relation to this investigation, or if they had similar dealings with Cortez Downey, who is also known to use the alias “Bon”. A photo of the accused is attached.

Investigators suspect that there may be other victims and encourage those victims to contact police. Anyone who suspects someone of being a victim of human trafficking, is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously London Elgin Middlesex Crime Stoppers.  

For media inquiries, contact:

Cst. Kyrsten Howell-Harries
Media Relations Officer
C. 226-448-0178
Email. Media Officer

22-85308