In February 2019, EPS Human Trafficking and Exploitation Unit detectives became aware of a 15-year-old female who was becoming involved in the sex trade. She was immediately apprehended by police under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children’s Act (PSECA).
A thorough investigation revealed that between December 2018 and March 2019, an adult male and female jointly recruited, procured and trafficked both the 15-year-old female as well as an additional 16-year-old female from a residence in central Edmonton.
On May 1, 2019, Louisa Wallis, 25 was arrested and charged with 20 offences, including trafficking of a person under the age of 18 years (x2), sexual assault of a person under 16 years, agreement or arrangement of sexual offences against a child (x2) and making child pornography (x2).
Louisa Wallis, 25
On May 1, 2019, Michael Moffat, 24, was also charged with 14 offences in relation to this investigation, including trafficking of a person under the age of 18 years (x2), sexual assault of a person under 16 years, and making child pornography (x2).
Michael Moffat, 24
“Human trafficking isn’t always an elaborate, organized operation like you see in the movies; it can be two people exploiting victims in a residence or hotel room next door,” says Det. Dan Duiker with the Human Trafficking and Exploitation Unit. “If you notice unusual or suspicious activity, report it to police. A dispute between a couple could be much more than meets the eye. Your report could save a vulnerable youth from going down a path they can’t escape.”
Signs of human trafficking and sexual exploitation include frequent arrivals and departures at unusual hours, introduction of young females or males in the home who did not live there before, evasive behaviour on the part of the trafficker or the victim, evidence of drug use, physical or emotional abuse, withdrawing from family and friends or unexplained new clothing or valuables.
Detectives believe there may be others who have been victimized by the two accused, and are encouraging additional complainants to come forward by contacting the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.
