York Regional Police, in collaboration with Hamilton Police, have announced a major development in a complex human trafficking investigation, resulting in serious charges against a Mississauga man.
Project Magnolia: A Year-Long Investigation
Dubbed Project Magnolia, the extensive probe began in May 2024 after Hamilton Police initiated an investigation into human trafficking activities spanning Hamilton and other parts of Ontario. York Regional Police later joined the collaborative effort.
Police allege that the accused, Jamiel Smith, 34, of Mississauga, used assault, choking, and sexual assault as means of control over his victims. The investigation revealed that trafficked victims were procured, and the accused allegedly advertised sexual services online. Shockingly, the victims included a person under the age of 18.
Details of the Charges and Allegations
Further allegations state that Smith took proceeds from the trafficked victims. In one particularly disturbing instance, he is accused of forcing a victim to marry someone for financial gain.
As a result of the investigation, Jamiel Smith now faces a slew of charges. These include:
- Twelve trafficking or procuring-related offences
- Four counts of advertising a sexual service
- Two counts of assault
- One count of sexual assault
Other Police News Briefs
Retail Robbery with a Firearm in Toronto: Toronto Police have charged a 50-year-old man, Yohan Germain Henry, after a robbery in the Dundas-Keele Sts. area on November 6. The suspect allegedly pointed a handgun at victims, demanding cash, and fled with a wallet and cellphones. A search warrant executed on November 12 led to his arrest and the recovery of a loaded handgun. He faces ten firearm-related charges.
Ancaster Jewelry Store Break-In: Hamilton Police are investigating a break-in at a Wilson St. jewelry store that occurred around 3:40 a.m. on Monday, November 17. Four suspects, believed to be using a grey Dodge Caravan, smashed their way into the business, broke display cases, and stole merchandise. The full value of the stolen items is still being assessed.
Man Charged with Indecent Acts in Cabbagetown: Toronto Police have arrested and charged Tyson Dante Tobias Macfarlane, 20, in connection with an indecent act involving a 10-year-old boy last week. The incident occurred near Sumach St. and Wellesley St. E. Police allege the accused committed indecent acts against four other victims between May and November, including one child under 13 and two young people under 18.
