J. Harbic

The accused was convicted of human trafficking, assault, uttering death threats, and related offences involving a young woman.

The court considered the accused's lengthy criminal record, particularly concerning violence against women, and his lack of respect for court orders.

Applying the Tang factors, the court noted the accused exerted control through violence and financial dependency, though the operation was small.

The court imposed a global sentence of 5 years, granting 25 months of credit for pre-sentence custody, leaving 35 months to serve.

The accused was charged with multiple offences arising from a relationship with a complainant involved in escorting and exotic dancing, including human trafficking, receiving a material benefit from trafficking, withholding identity documents, assault, uttering threats, and breach of an undertaking.

The court assessed the complainant’s credibility, finding elements of exaggeration but accepting significant portions of her evidence.

The court held that the accused exercised control over the complainant through violence, threats, emotional manipulation, and financial control, compelling her to provide sexual services and surrender her earnings.

This conduct constituted human trafficking and related offences under the Criminal Code.

The accused was convicted on several counts, acquitted on others where the Crown had not met the burden of proof.