Two men arrested for human trafficking
Posted Aug 28, 2017 02:16:31 PM.
Last Updated Aug 28, 2017 02:17:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
DARTMOUTH — An 18 month long investigation has lead to the arrest of two men in relation to human trafficking.
According to RCMP the investigation first began in April 2016 when Nova Scotia RCMP received information about two men, originally from Nova Scotia, who had relocated to Ontario and were trafficking and exploiting women from Nova Scotia in the sex trade across Canada.
As part of the lengthy investigation, officers worked with RCMP from British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, along with Halifax Regional Police. Police in Niagara, York and Toronto also helped with the investigation.
On August 25 at approximately 3:45 p.m., Nova Scotia RCMP arrested 31-year-old Malachi Almonzo Downey of Vaughn, Ontario in Upper Onslow, Colchester County. On August 27 at approximately 12:30 p.m., Nova Scotia RCMP arrested 29-year-old Sanderico Rekel Beals of Scarborough, Ontario in Dartmouth.
Downey and Beals are each charged with:
- Trafficking in Persons
- Receiving a Material Benefit from Sexual Services
- Receiving a Material Benefit from Trafficking in Persons
- Laundering Proceeds of Crime
Downey is also charged with Possession of Percocet. Both men have been remanded into custody and appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court this morning.
RCMP said that sometimes people don’t realize they are victims of human trafficking but there are some warning signs which include:
- no proof of employment
- unexplained injuries or bruises
- changes in physical appearance (hair and nails done)
- moves, addresses frequently and/or often stays in hotels
- being isolated from friends and family
If you suspect that someone is being trafficked, RCMP have created a tip line. Citizens can call or text tips to 902-449-2425.
