The Halton Regional Police Service’s (HRPS) Human Trafficking Unit has announced the completion of an investigation which led to the arrest of a 45-year-old man from Milton.
The investigation began in January. Investigators were able to execute a search warrant and take Chris Almas into custody.
He is charged with:
- Sexual Assault
- Non-consensual Distribution of Intimate Images
- Procuring
- Exercise Control
- Material Benefit Resulting from Sexual Services
- Advertise Sexual Services
He has been held in custody pending a bail hearing.
HRPS believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone who may have information to please contact D/Cst. SERAFINI of the Human Trafficking Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 4974.
Almas sometimes goes by the online handle of "Christy Lee."
HRPS would also like to remind victims of violence and/or sexual assault and witnesses to contact the Halton Regional Police Service. The following is a list of valuable support services and resources in our region for victims of violence and/or sexual assault:
- Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit 905-825-4777 ext. 5239 or by email at [email protected]
- Nina's Place Sexual Assault and Domestic Assault Care Centre 905-336-4116 or 905-681-4880
- Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services (SAVIS) 905-875-1555 (24-hour crisis line)
- Radius Child & Youth Services 905-825-3242 (Oakville) or 1-855-744-9001
- Kid's Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 (24-hour crisis line)
- THRIVE Counselling 905-845-3811 or 905-637-5256
Some signs and indicators of human trafficking include (but are not limited to):
- Not being allowed to speak for themselves;
- Not having control of their own money or cellphone;
- Suddenly having a new or second cell phone with a secret number;
- Being controlled by others and escorted at all times;
- Not being allowed to contact family or friends;
- Withdrawing from family and friends;
- Providing rehearsed answers to casual questions;
- Being secretive about their activities;
- Showing signs of abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns, fractures, etc.
- Having a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won't introduce to friends/family; and
- Having new items (clothing, jewelry etc.) outside their financial means.
What Should I Do if I Think Someone is a Victim of Trafficking?
If there is immediate danger or if you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1.
You may also call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.
The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, multilingual service, operating 24/7 to connect victims and survivors with social services, law enforcement, and emergency services, as well as receive tips from the public.
The hotline uses a victim-centered approach when connecting human trafficking victims and survivors with local emergency, transition, and/or long-term supports and services across the country, as well as connecting callers to law enforcement where appropriate.