MORE POWER SOUGHT ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING PROBES

Ontario moved to crack down on human trafficking by introducing legislation Monday that would give police more power to swiftly access information in suspected cases. The bill, if passed, would compel hotels and similar companies to keep a list of information on guests that officers could request if they believe it could help locate, identify or protect a suspected human trafficking victim. The demand from law enforcement to view guest information wouldn't require an order from a judge if an officer reasonably believes a victim would be harmed or if the information might be destroyed before an order is issued. Companies or guests who fail comply with the rules or make false statements could be fined up to $5,000. The bill would also require companies that sell sexual services to publish their contact information and respond to law enforcement within a set time frame. Premier Doug Ford said his province has become a “hub” for human trafficking and the legislation is desperately needed. “We will not allow this to continue here in Ontario,” he said.