Perpetrators lure victims under pretence of romance, of being their boyfriend: Police
A Montreal FSO gang member accused of being involved in human trafficking in Calgary and Edmonton has been arrested by Alberta police. FSO stands for Fly S—- Only.
The Montreal-based gang is involved in Canada-wide human trafficking. FSO are known to brand their victims, according to Alberta Law Enforcement Agency (ALERT).
Members of ALERT arrested 26-year-old Kristof Dion-Pons on Jan. 30 with help from Calgary police. His arrest came following a request for assistance from the Quebec joint forces Anti-Pimping team known as EILP. Dion-Pons was convicted for human trafficking in 2018 on charges of living on the profits of juvenile prostitution and handed a three-year prison sentence.
ALERT says at the time of his arrest, he was in the company of three trafficking victims, who were provided with support resources through ALERT’s safety network coordinator.
“In most instances, these perpetrators will lure and attract their victims under the pretence of romance, of being their boyfriend,” said Det. Kathy Bowman of ALERT. “But it’s important for us to highlight the machinations of organized crime behind human trafficking and the profit involved in exploiting girls for sex.”
Dion-Pons has been charged with trafficking in persons, advertising of sexual services, identity fraud, and possession of proceeds of crime.
Investigators believes the offences took place over a period of two years.
He was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 27.
ALERT’s investigation identified at least five victims, but officers believe there are more victims out there, and are encouraging them to come forward and speak with police.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to call their local police service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.
