Halton police charge two men in connection with human trafficking investigation

Halton police have arrested two men and laid multiple charges in connection with a human trafficking investigation.

In July of last year, officers began an investigation into a female being trafficked by two Oakville men.

Police say that multiple other adult females were also trafficked by the same two men.

The men allegedly used coercion, manipulation, physical violence, and psychological harm to control and influence the victims, while taking advantage of them financially.

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On March 20, police carried out search warrants at two locations in Oakville, which resulted in the arrests of the two men and the following items being seized:

• Approximately 254 grams of cocaine
• A large sum of cash
• A stolen motorcycle
• Several electronic devices
• Victim identity documents

Thirty-eight-year-old Rayon Powell of Oakville, also known by aliases of Dante, Michael Williams and Kash, has been charged with human trafficking related offences such as trafficking in persons and sexual assault.

Forty-six-year-old Gebre Byrnes of Oakville, also known by aliases of G and Jason Peters, has also been charged with human trafficking related offences.

The two men are currently being held for bail.

Authorities believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to contact Det. Scott Heyerman of the Human Trafficking Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 5241.

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