Calgary human trafficking suspect facing additional charges
Global News
A 21-year-old Calgary man is facing additional charges in connection with an Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams human trafficking investigation that began earlier this year.
A Calgary man has racked up additional charges in connection with an Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) human trafficking investigation that began earlier this year.
In May 2023, investigators became aware of a man targeting teen girls in the Calgary area and sexually exploiting them. At the time, one 15-year-old victim was identified.
Police have since been able to identify three additional victims, each between the ages of 16 and 18, leading to additional charges being laid.
“We’ve continued with our investigation and believe that he was actively exploiting these teens, and other girls as well. We’re releasing his photo now in hopes to encourage other survivors to come forward and share any information they have with police,” said Staff Sgt. Colleen Bowers, ALERT human trafficking.
Police said in a news release Wednesday that all victims will receive access to necessary support and resources from a safety network co-ordinator that works in partnership with the ALERT unit to provide enhanced support to survivors.
The Calgary Police Service, the Lethbridge Police Service and FINTRAC also assisted with the investigation.
Benjamin Loewen, 21, is now facing 12 additional charges, including: