Ottawa police seek possible victims in human trafficking case

Lochiel McCarthy, 25, of Ottawa is charged in connection with allegations of human trafficking between 2022 and 2024. (Ottawa Police Service/handout)

The Ottawa Police Service says a 25-year-old man is facing charges following a human trafficking investigation in the capital.

Police said a female victim came forward in November 2025 with regard to alleged offences that took place between September 2022 and May 2024.

As a result, one man was arrested.

Lochiel McCarthy, 25, is facing the following charges:

• Trafficking in Persons under 18 x 2
• Material Benefit x 2
• Material Benefit under 18
• Procuring under 18 x2
• Advertising another person’s sexual services
• Sexual Assault
• Assault by choking x 3
• Uttering death threats
• Administer a noxious substance

McCarthy is due in court on Friday, police said.

Police say McCarthy is alleged to have used several aliases, including “Lucky”, “Lucky Number 13”, and “13.”

Investigators say they believe there could be other victims and have released the man’s photo and aliases because potential victims might not know his legal name.

“The reporting of these incidents by victims to police is key for investigators to identify suspects and determine crime trends,” police said in a news release.

Anyone with information regarding incidents involving this individual is asked to call the Ottawa Police Service Human Trafficking Unit tip line at 613-236-1222 ext. 5625 or email [e-mail].

The Ottawa Police Service says its human trafficking unit can offer help and resources, even if a survivor does not wish to pursue criminal charges. Information is found on the Ottawa Police Service’s website.