More victims possible in human trafficking investigation involving minor
Posted Jan 14, 2026 12:14:19 PM.
Last Updated Jan 14, 2026 12:24:11 PM.
A 25-year-old man from Ottawa is facing over a dozen offences in connection with a human trafficking case.
Ottawa police said they charged Lochiel McCarthy in an investigation that began in November 2025. Officials said the offences involved one female victim. Offences happened between September 2022 and May 2024, the press release notes.
He is facing charges including:
- Trafficking in persons under 18 x 2
- Material benefit x 2
- Material benefit under 18
- Procuring under 18 x2
- Advertising another person sexual services
- Sexual assault
- Assault by choking x 3
- Uttering death threats
- Administer a noxious substance
Police released a photo of McCarthy, saying they believe other victims are possible and that they may not know him by his legal name. He is alleged to have used other names like Lucky, Lucky number 13 and 13.
“The Human Trafficking Unit will respect victims’ wishes whether to pursue criminal charges, and regardless, can offer resources to support survivors of human trafficking,” the press release reads. “The reporting of these incidents by victims to police is key for investigators to identify suspects and determine crime trends.”
Anyone with information regarding incidents involving the accused is asked to call 613-236-1222 ext. 5625 or email mcm@ottawapolice.ca.
