Calgary, AB,
26
January
2021
|
12:11
America/Denver

Police lay charges in human trafficking investigation

Investigators have arrested and charged a Calgary man in relation to the sexual exploitation and trafficking of two underage girls in Calgary.

In June 2020, while investigating additional human trafficking cases, police discovered that a 16-year-old girl and a 15-year-old girl were allegedly being trafficked and sexually exploited by the same man.

The man allegedly advertised the two girls online and set up multiple encounters between them and other men where the girls participated in sexual acts in exchange for money. It is also believed that the man himself engaged in sexual activity with the 15-year-old girl, who is not able to legally consent as the legal age of consent in Canada is 16.

On Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, police arrested and charged Harrison Brian PENNEY, 29, of Calgary, with one count each of sexual assault, sexual interference, obtaining sexual services for consideration, human trafficking, possession of child pornography and accessing child pornography.

Police are asking anyone with information that could aid in this investigation to contact Detective Amy Spence at 403-428-5457. 

The victims are being supported by the Calgary and Area Child Advocacy Centre (CCAC) that provides wrap-around support for children, youth, and families who have been impacted by severe and complex abuse. For more information on how to recognize the signs of child abuse and what to do if you suspect a child or youth is being abused, please visit the CCAC website at www.calgarycac.ca.

The Calgary Police Service encourages anyone who believes they are a victim of sexual assault to report it to police. Victims of sexual assault can report it to police by calling 403-266-1234, or 9-1-1 if they are in immediate danger. There is no time limit on how long a victim has to report a sexual assault in Canada.

Tips can also be left anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers using any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

APP: "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store

Case #21026647/4307