The Brandon Police Service held a joint media briefing this morning with the Winnipeg Police Service to announce the results of a joint undertaking on this past Friday and Saturday aimed at targeting the demand side of sexual exploitation in Brandon and the safety of those who are exploited.
As part of the project, initiated in response to what Police say is the gaining of traction in human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the community, a total of 20 males have been arrested and charged with Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration. Of the 20 arrested within a 48-hour period, 14 are said to be from Brandon. Alongside the 20 charges was the seizure of 15 vehicles.
All 20 charged have been released on a Promise to Appear with a September court date set in Brandon.
The operation was conducted alongside the Winnipeg Police Service, whom maintain a dedicated counter-exploitation unit. Police say that there were no victims as part of this operation, which focused on the demand side of sexual exploitation.
More information on sexual exploitation and human trafficking can be reviewed at https://www.winnipeg.ca/police/ceu/default.stm
A replay of the media briefing can be watched at this link. The full media release issued today can be reviewed at http://police.brandon.ca/media-zone/3419-29-july-2019-project-beckon