Guelph records highest police-reported human trafficking rate in Ontario in 2024

Statistics Canada data show Guelph (with Thunder Bay) had the highest police-reported human trafficking rate in Ontario in 2024 at 11 incidents per 100,000 people; local officials say expanded police resources and community outreach have led to more identification and response.

Guelph recorded one of the highest police-reported human trafficking rates in Ontario in 2024, according to Statistics Canada. The city’s figure was reported as 11 incidents per 100,000 people, above the national city average of 1.6. Guelph Police Chief Gordon Cobey said the numbers reflect both the presence of trafficking and increased local investment in training and resources. The article notes this coverage appears alongside community awareness efforts and National Human Trafficking Awareness Day this Sunday. Key points: - Statistics Canada data show Guelph and Thunder Bay had the highest police-reported human trafficking rate in Ontario in 2024. - Guelph police recorded 11 incidents per 100,000 people in 2024, while the national city average was 1.6 incidents. - Officials say the city has increased training and staffing, including an integrated unit with roughly four times more resources focused on these cases. - The article reports outreach efforts such as briefings to nearly 900 teachers and mentions a national human trafficking hotline and local support organizations. Summary: Local officials describe the higher reported rate as reflecting both the reality of trafficking in the community and more intensive efforts to identify and respond to cases. Undetermined at this time.