Christopher Becks, 38, from Ponoka, is facing multiple trials for a slew of human trafficking charges as well as sexual assault following an investigation by the investigation by the ALERT Human Trafficking unit.
Becks was arrested in December, 2022. A search warrant was executed at a home in Edmonton after reports that someone was targeting women, many with no fixed address.
Staff Sgt. Christopher Hayes with ALERT’s human trafficking section said they believed the accused had actively searched out vulnerable women struggling with addiction.
“He would lure these women to hotels by offering drugs, food and a place to stay, then exploit them and force them into the sex trade, even taking them to other areas of the province," Hayes stated at the time.
RCMP stated over a dozen women were thought to have been victimized.
Becks was originally charged with seven offences related to sex trafficking and sexual assault.
Since then, court dates have proceeded and two jury trials have been set.
READ MORE: Ponoka man accused of human trafficking
For the charges of trafficking in persons, receiving material benefits from the trafficking of persons, advertising sexual services and other related charges, a jury trial has been scheduled for May 12 to 16, 2025, at the Edmonton Court of King’s Bench. Jury selection is to begin on May 8.
For the sexual assault charge and two counts of failing to meet conditions of a release, a trial is scheduled for Sept. 8 to 12, 2025, at the Wetaskiwin Court of King's Bench. Those alleged offences took place in Ponoka between Sept. 19 and Oct. 13, 2023.
