Toronto Rapper and Weeknd Affiliate Derek Wise Arrested on Human Trafficking Charges

In a troubling news story, Toronto rapper Derek Bissue — better known as Derek Wise — was arrested and charged on 15 counts connected to a human trafficking investigation. The 22-year-old Mississuaga native is a member of the Toronto rap-crew Get Home Safe and has been loosely affiliated with The Weeknd's XO crew, appearing in The Weeknd's "King of Fall" music video, though any record of Wise on the XO website has since been erased. He made an appearance in court Friday, Dec. 12. The report cites a 21-year-old woman who alleges that Bissue forced her into the sex trade. He faces charges including trafficking in persons, robbery, weapons charges and three counts of theft.

Bissue's manager has responded to the allegations with a statement, via Vice Canada:

The investigation against Derek is both shocking and offensive. These accusations, which we take very seriously, were brought to the police after Derek attempted to end an unhealthy relationship with a mentally unstable individual. Derek's character would not allow him to commit any of the allegations he is facing. Unfortunately, the mental health of his accuser is in question as well. During their relationship, Derek was a victim of physical abuse, slanderous accusations and was threatened that his career would be ruined by the same person who has now made these erroneous allegations. Having had to deal with these abuses before the investigation, Derek would never put anyone through the same pain he was forced to experience. Derek would like everyone to please understand that all slanderous accusations against him are completely untrue and he empathizes with ALL victims of any and every form of abuse. GHS, also known as "get home safe," members and affiliates of Derek Bissue, also known as "Derek Wise," do not promote any of the negative and horrendous claims brought against Derek. As a young man raised by a single mother, who Derek found love and endless inspiration, he would never put himself into a situation that would cause harm to a woman. It hurts me to see my best friend and business partner in this situation. People change when they see someone close to them elevating their mindset and focusing on positive routes to success. I want all of his fans, friends and loved ones to send positive energy for this tiresome, somber and ridiculous situation. Lastly, I want to state that due to the legal process I cannot disclose anymore information at this time. Also, please understand that there are two sides to every story.

It is best to let the legal process play out before jumping to conclusions, but this is a disturbing type of allegation, notably with how prolific human trafficking is in Toronto, according to a report by the Alliance Against Modern Slavery.