04/25/2026
If you saw the news out of Edmonton on April 8, you were likely sickened by the story: a 47-year-old man, Jonathan Allard, facing 28 charges, including 26 Criminal Code offences for human trafficking, forcible confinement, assault, procuring and advertising s*xual services, plus two Animal Protection Act charges.
This case lays bare a harsh truth: right here in Alberta, there are people who view other human beings as objects to exploit rather than individuals worthy of dignity, respect, and freedom.
According to the ALERT Human Trafficking unit, at least five women were victimized, and investigators believe there may be more. Traffickers like this rarely stop at one victim.
But because one survivor found the courage to come forward and speak to police, this man’s ability to harm others has been interrupted. Somewhere in Alberta, and beyond, there are real people who will not be hurt in the future by this man, because she bravely spoke up.
This not only shows the power that only survivors have, it highlights the wisdom in Canada's current approach under the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act (2014), often referred to as the Nordic Model. When systems empower those who are being victimized, not criminals, they can step forward without fear of arrest or judgment. Under the Nordic Model, Canada does not criminalize those who are sold and exploited, placing full legal responsibility on those who buy, sell, or traffick human beings.
We need stronger resources to investigate and hold traffickers and purchasers accountable. But those efforts will fail if survivors do not feel safe enough to speak up.
At the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons, we want to say directly and sincerely acknowledge the bravery of this survivor. Your courage protects others and reminds us why our work exists.
To anyone in Alberta who has experienced exploitation or suspects someone else has: you are not alone, and help is available.
🔸 Call 211 for confidential, local support and connections to services across the province.
🔸 In immediate danger, call 911.
🔸 If you have information about a crime, you can submit a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (6477) or visiting www.crimestoppers.ab.ca
Every survivor who reaches out strengthens our collective response. Together, we can ensure courage like this is met with compassion, safety, and real pathways to healing.
The Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons is committed to building a province where trafficking has no place to hide.