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Edmonton

Edmonton couple charged with human trafficking

Nov 10, 2020 | 11:35 AM

Two people in Edmonton have been charged with human trafficking.

ALERT’S (Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams) Human Trafficking unit alleges 51-year-old Ross Pickering and 55-year-old Anita Pickering were procuring women, including youths, for sex in the Edmonton area.

Both were arrested on November 3. ALERT is encouraging victims to come forward and contact police.

Anyone with information in regard to this particular investigation, or any human trafficking concerns, is asked to call their local police detachment or CrimeStoppers.

“We are committed to listening. Your information could help prevent someone else from being exploited,” said Staff Sgt. Lance Parker with ALERT’s Human Trafficking unit.

Ross Pickering is charged with:

  • Trafficking in a person
  • Advertising the sexual services of another person
  • Procuring
  • Procuring a person under the age of 18
  • Obtaining material benefit from trafficking a person

Anita Pickering, meanwhile, is charged with:

  • Trafficking in a person
  • Procuring
  • Obtaining material benefit from trafficking a person

ALERT says both suspects were released on bail.

(Lethbridge News Now)