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Calgary… A 21-year-old Calgary man is facing numerous human trafficking-related charges following an ALERT investigation. The suspect allegedly targeted vulnerable teens girls and sexually exploited them.
ALERT Human Trafficking’s investigation revealed that teens girls in Calgary were being targeted by the accused. To date, one 15-year-old victim has been identified and ALERT is looking to speak with other people who may have information about this investigation.
“We believe the accused was targeting young, vulnerable teen girls, forcing them into sexual situations, directing their movements, advertising sexual services, and taking their money,” said Cpl. Wayne Williams, ALERT Human Trafficking.
The victim is receiving necessary support and resources. ALERT has a Safety Network Coordinator embedded within their unit to provide enhanced supports to survivors.
On May 18, 2023, Benjamin Loewen, a 21-year- old from Calgary, was charged with the following:
He has been released from custody as he awaits his next court appearance on June 16, 2023.
“It is our understanding that this has been occurring for the past year and we have reason to believe that he may have exploited others. We want to reassure other survivors that it is safe to come forward and that their information is valuable,” Cpl. Williams added.
ALERT is working with Calgary Police Service’s child abuse unit on the investigation, which began in March 2023.
ALERT encourages anyone who believes they are a victim of sexual assault or abuse to report it to police. Victims of sexual assault can report it to the Calgary Police Service 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.
ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.
The work we do is about our communities, and that’s why we recognize that residents can be instrumental in tackling serious crime. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a crime, or you suspect criminal activity, please reach out. Your information will remain strictly confidential.
Thank you for helping to make Alberta safer by being actively involved and reporting suspicious activity.
