Second suspect arrested in Durham human trafficking investigation

Yvenord Hyacinthe, 44, of Oshawa, is facing several charges in connection with a human trafficking investigation in Durham Region. (DRPS photo)

Police in Durham Region have announced the arrest of a 44-year-old man from Oshawa, after a young woman was allegedly coerced into the sex trade nearly one year ago.

Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) say on May 1, 2025 they launched an human trafficking investigation after learning of allegations involving the exploitation of a female victim.

“Investigators determined that the victim initially met the suspects in Oshawa in February 2025. A male and female were both identified in connection with this investigation,” police said in a news release.

Police previously said the female suspect exploited the victim and coerced her to engage in sexual acts with men in exchange for money over the course of several weeks.

On July 3, 2025, officers were called to an address near Bond Street East and Ritson Road North in Oshawa for reports of a disturbance. There, they located and arrested the female suspect.

Tina Baker, 46, of Oshawa, was charged with multiple offences, including trafficking in persons, forcible confinement, extortion, assault, and several others. She was held for a bail hearing.

Yvenord Hyacinthe, 43, of Oshawa, was also wanted in connection with this incident and a warrant had been issued for his arrest.

• READ MORE: Woman arrested, man outstanding in Durham human trafficking investigation

Police say on March 12, members of the Offender Management Unit found and arrested Hyacinthe, who is now 44 years old.

He has been charged with assault, assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, robbery, extortion, and procuring. The accused was held for a bail hearing, police said.

Investigators previously said they are concerned there may be additional victims and the Human Trafficking Unit is actively working to identify and support those affected.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone who has been victimized as well as anyone with further information is asked to contact DRPS at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5600, or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

With files from Laura Sebben