Cochrane RCMP have announced that they have laid charges following a lengthy investigation into alleged human trafficking that occurred nearly two decades ago.
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The investigation began in early February when a complainant reported that she had been the victim of sex trafficking between 2004 and 2007 at the hands of a man she had initially met on an online dating site.
According to police, after a brief consensual relationship, the man began to exploit the victim by posting nude photos of her online. These images were used to arrange sexual services, with the man driving the victim to meetings and collecting money on her behalf.
During the nine-month investigation, the Cochrane RCMP's General Investigation Section identified additional victims whose statements helped support the allegations.
On November 7, the investigation culminated in the arrest of 47-year-old Cochrane resident Darren Routhier. Routhier has been charged with several serious offences, including:
- Human Trafficking
- Receiving financial benefits from trafficking
- Sexual Assault Causing Bodily Harm
- Unlawful Confinement
- Extortion
Following a Judicial Interim Release Hearing, Routhier was released under conditions including no contact with the victims. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 26 at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane.
Sgt. Matt Pumphrey of the Cochrane RCMP emphasized the importance of recognizing that human trafficking can occur close to home.
"As we have seen through this investigation, human trafficking is not something that just happens elsewhere. It can and is happening all around us," he said.
Pumphrey also highlighted the courage of the victims in coming forward, noting the impact of trauma and encouraging anyone who believes they may be a victim to seek help.
"Survivors who have been exploited or trafficked are encouraged to come forward with these kinds of allegations regardless of when they occurred... The courage of the victims in this investigation to come forward is remarkable. The trauma of human trafficking cannot be understated, and if you or someone you know needs assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out.”
The RCMP urges those affected by human trafficking to contact local police. The Canadian government has had laws in place against human trafficking, including both labour and sex trafficking, since 2005.
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