Saugeen Shores Police are issuing a public reminder that purchasing sexual services is illegal in Ontario and can expose individuals to significant legal and personal risks.
Under the federal Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act, it is a criminal offence to obtain sexual services in exchange for money.
The warning follows a recent local incident in which an individual contacted a person through a website associated with prostitution and arranged to meet at a motel. Police say the situation escalated when the escort allegedly attempted to blackmail the client by demanding a large payment in exchange for not revealing the encounter to the person’s family.
Police say such cases often involve scams, extortion, or safety risks.
Anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation is advised to stop all communication immediately, block contact methods, avoid sending money, and stay away from websites known for solicitation.
The warning comes a day before Human Trafficking Awarness Day in Canada, on February 22nd.
If you, or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, multilingual service, operating 24/7 that connects victims and survivors with social services, law enforcement, and/or emergency services.