Charges Laid in Human Trafficking Investigation in Markham
York Regional Police have laid charges in an ongoing human trafficking investigation that originated in Markham and involves multiple provinces.
Investigators with the York Regional Police Counter Exploitation Unit (CEU), in partnership with the Service de Police de la Ville de Montréal Sexual Exploitation Section, have charged a suspect in connection with an ongoing human trafficking investigation.
In May 2026, a proactive enforcement investigation by the CEU targeting the advertising of sexual services in York Region identified a victim at a hotel near Highway 7 and Leslie Street in Markham. The victim reported being lured to Ontario from British Columbia under false pretenses and subsequently trafficked and exploited in the sex trade.
As the investigation progressed, additional victims were identified, and the suspect was linked to an ongoing human trafficking investigation in Montréal. Investigators believe there are additional victims in Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and other parts of Canada.
The suspect is alleged to have presented himself online as a motivational speaker and fitness instructor primarily working with women, using the usernames “Coach Dreamz” and “Dreamz.bigg.” He was also believed to frequent various gyms across Canada. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are anticipated.