Edmonton Couple Charged in Human Trafficking Investigation

Edmonton… An Edmonton couple is facing charges after an investigation by ALERT’s Human Trafficking unit.

Ross Pickering, 51, and Anita Pickering, 55, were arrested on November 3, 2020. ALERT’s Human Trafficking unit alleges that the couple were procuring women, including youths, for sex in the Edmonton area.

ALERT is encouraging victims to come forward and contact police. Anyone with information about this investigation, or any human trafficking offence is encouraged to contact local police or Crime Stoppers.

“We are committed to listening. Your information could help prevent someone else from being exploited,” said Staff Sgt. Lance Parker, ALERT 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; and
  • obtaining material benefit from trafficking a person.

Anita Pickering is charged with:

  • trafficking in a person;
  • procuring; and
  • obtaining material benefit from trafficking a person

Both suspects were released on bail.