The VPD is committed to building trust and helping people in the sex industry stay safe. All VPD officers receive training on the challenges sex workers may face when reporting crime, such as stigma, fear of being judged, and past negative experiences with police.
Our response to sex work calls for service is guided by our Sex Work Enforcement Guidelines.
The Counter Exploitation Unit has recently changed their name to the Human Trafficking Unit to better reflect the priorities of their work.
Ways to Report to Police
You also have these options:
Crime Stoppers: If you wish to remain anonymous, you can provide information to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
Third-Party Reporting: If you are the victim of a sexual assault, someone can make a police report on your behalf. Learn how third-party reporting works.
Safety Tips
- Operate on a buddy system; tell a friend who you are with and where you are going
- Send a friend a picture of the vehicle and/or license plate, or residential address, before getting into a vehicle or going into an unknown residence
- Consider carrying a tracking device on you, such as an Apple AirTag or phone with a tracking app installed, and give access to someone you trust
Getting Help and What to Expect
In 2025, VPD officers received updated training on sex work awareness and how to respond in a respectful, supportive way. This training was created with input from community groups.
When you ask for help, an officer will come to you, listen to what happened, and gather information and evidence to understand the situation.
After you make a report, you will be given a file number. This number helps you follow up, share more details, and know who is handling your case.
Sometimes, a team with special training may take over, depending on the situation. If that happens, you will be given the name of the investigator and how to contact them.
Please see Information for Victims for available resources and to learn about your rights as a victim of crime.
VPD Women’s Personal Safety Team
This VPD team gives free workshops in the community, with the goal of educating, inspiring, and empowering women to take ownership of their personal safety.
Learn more about the VPD Women’s Personal Safety Team and their upcoming workshops.
Sex Industry Liaison Officer
For many years, the Vancouver Police Department has had a Sex Industry Liaison Officer, helping to build trust with people in the sex industry and supporting safety in all settings—on the street, indoors, and online.
Today, the liaison officer focuses on building relationships, making it easier to report harm, and connecting people to support services. They share safety information about high-risk offenders and locations, handle discreet outreach with community partners, and work alongside officers from investigative and community policing units.
You can contact the Sex Industry Liaison Officer at silo@vpd.ca for any resources or questions. Please see the crime reporting options on this page. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
Community Resources and Supports
B.C. Coalition of Experiential Communities (BCCEC)
Peer-led organization representing sex workers across BC
www.nakedtruth.ca | 604-671-2345
The Corner
1292 Hornby Street
A Vancouver drop-in support and referral program that provides a safe space for men and gender-diverse people, (including those who are transgender, non-binary and Two-Spirit), who work or have worked in the sex industry.
Health Initiative for Men (HIM)
Sex work Supports for men and gender diverse sex workers., including safety resources, bad date reporting, outreach, and health services.
www.checkhimout.ca | 604-675-3647
Kingsway Community Station
Four washrooms and office space for women (including transgender, cisgender, gender diverse, and Two-Spirit people) who engage in sex work around the Kingsway area. It is staffed by peer workers. www.raincityhousing.org | 604-428-0834
